Pomona Unified School District recently concluded its school year by hosting the annual Teacher Induction Colloquium, a culminating event that has been part of a 25-plus year tradition celebrating the achievements of new educators enrolled in the district’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)-accredited Teacher Induction Program. More than 150 participants—including candidates, mentors, and staff—gathered for an evening of reflection, recognition, and community-building.
The two-year program, part of the Division of Educational Services’ Department of Equity and Professional Learning under the leadership of Director Dr. Kathrine Morillo-Shone, overseen by Program Administrator, Dr. Pat Pawlak with the phenomenal support of Teacher Specialists Enriqueta Gomez and Marcy Santos, provides new teachers with structured mentorship, reflective practice, and professional learning. Throughout the year, participants engage in mentor meetings, classroom observations, and portfolio development.
During the event, the Deputy Superintendent Lilia Fuentes congratulated Year 1 and Year 2 candidates for their hard work and accomplishments, while also commending mentors for their dedicated guidance and support throughout the program.
The Colloquium highlighted candidates’ growth through presentations of Individual Learning Projects (ILPs), with those completing the program's final milestone receiving special recognition. This year, the program supported 86 teachers across multiple credential areas, with 26 completing their induction requirements under the guidance of 40 experienced mentors.
Looking ahead, PUSD anticipates serving approximately 97 induction candidates in the 2025–26 school year, continuing its commitment to high-quality teacher development and instructional excellence.