Founded in 2001, AUSL is a not-for-profit teacher preparation and school management organization working in partnership with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to effect the transformation of underperforming schools.

AUSL was founded by Martin J. Koldyke, venture capitalist and founder of The Golden Apple Foundation. He inspired and engaged a group of business and community leaders to design a program that would significantly advance and reform the teaching profession.

The AUSL Urban Teacher Residency (UTR) program involves a full year’s apprenticeship with a mentor teacher in one of our training academies. During the same year, our Residents earn their Master’s degree and state certification. Coursework is specifically designed to equip our Residents to teach in urban schools. AUSL provides a training salary and benefits during the Residency year.

Acceptance into AUSL’s program carries a four-year, post-graduation commitment to teach in an underperforming CPS school. Graduates hired into CPS receive a typical salary for a starting teacher with a master’s degree.