TeacherTech FAQs
(FAQs also available as PDF)
TeacherTech transforms teaching and learning by connecting Greater Kansas City area K-12 teachers with eight-week, paid summer externships in area businesses, academic institutions and research facilities. TeacherTech externs are exposed to real-life applications and advancements in the fields of math, engineering, technology and science (METS)—knowledge that can be directly incorporated into their classrooms.
What do Teacher Tech externs do?
Externs work in virtually all functions within a company, including engineering, programming, software development, finance and accounting, sales and marketing, manufacturing, management information systems, training and human resources—the possibilities are endless.
How long do teacher externships last?
Externships typically last eight weeks and take place during the summer.
How many hours per day/week will the extern work?
Typically externs work 40 hours a week for the eight-week placement.
How do employers benefit from participation in TeacherTech?
Participating employers directly benefit by:
• Receiving highly qualified, temporary employees who can work on specific tasks and assignments
• Sharing knowledge to better prepare tomorrow’s workforce
• Providing leadership development opportunities for employees who mentor TeacherTech externs
• Enhancing diversity, adding new energy and bringing fresh perspectives to the workplace
• Enhancing the organization’s image and visibility in the community
What is the cost to add a participating company?
Teacher salary (paid directly to the teacher by employer) $20 per hour for a max = $6,400
Program fee = $1,500 *
Fees for classroom grants and participants’ continuing education credits = $ 600 *
Total cost for employer = $8,500
* tax-deductible
How does a company become involved in TeacherTech and hire an extern?
First, register to become an employer partner at yf-uplink.org. A client services manager will contact you to discuss the terms of the partnership and work with you to set up an online account.
How is YouthFriends involved in TeacherTech?
TeacherTech is a component of UpLink, Kansas City’s first-ever community hub connecting the workplace with the classroom. UpLink is operated by YouthFriends.
How does a teacher become involved in TeacherTech and find an externship?
Go to yf-uplink.org/TeacherTech, log in as a new user and enter your personal information. Through the online database, teachers can search through a list of available externships and apply for positions.
How do teachers benefit from participation in TeacherTech?
Participating teachers benefit by:
• Enhancing their knowledge and skills through real-world application of math, engineering, technology and science
• Gaining in-depth understanding of industry concepts to make their teaching more relevant to students
• Receiving $20 an hour for the eight-week assignment (up to $6,400)
• Developing long-term partnerships and gaining the support of employers.
How do I know what districts are involved with UpLink?
A list of participating districts is available in the Partners section of yf-uplink.org.
For more information about TeacherTech, contact Rachel Plotkin at 816.842.7082.