SUNY Potsdam

The Teacher Opportunity Corps  (TOC) is an educational initiative sponsored by the New York State Education Department Office of K-16 Initiatives and Access Programs Teacher Development Programs Unit.

The purpose of TOC is:

• to enhance the preparation of teachers and prospective teachers in addressing the   learning needs of students at-risk of truancy, academic failure, or dropping out of school; and

• to increase the participation rate of historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged individuals in teaching careers.

TOC works closely with SUNY Potsdam’s School of Education and Professional Studies and the Teacher/Leader Quality Partnerships Program (TLQP), which supports education majors with field-based learning experiences in the Salmon River Central School District on the St. Regis Mohawk Akwesasne Reservation.

TOC serves full-time undergraduate/graduate students, or part-time graduate students completing the requirements for initial/provisional/permanent certification.  

TOC provides enrichment activities and services for its members that include:
•    financial support for review books for teacher licensing exam preparation;
•    payment of the New York State Teacher Certification Examination fees;
•    programs on successful methods/strategies to teach at-risk students;
•    opportunities to attend educational conferences;
•    resume and portfolio development;
•    academic and personal counseling; and
•    mentoring by master teachers during their first year of teaching.


For further information about TOC membership, please contact the TOC Director, Sisson Hall 119, (315) 267-2745 or e-mail fisherdg@potsdam.edu.