Beginning Teacher Assistance Program

Missouri Beginning Teacher Assistance Program (BTAP): A Two-Year Support System for New Educators

New to teaching in Missouri?
The Missouri Beginning Teacher Assistance Program (BTAP) is a structured, two-year professional development experience designed to support first- and second-year educators. Starting in the 2024–2025 school year, BTAP helps new teachers meet certification standards while building confidence, community, and classroom effectiveness.

What Is the Missouri BTAP?

MSTA’s BTAP program provides quarterly professional learning opportunities aligned with the Missouri Teacher Development System. It blends in-person and virtual formats, offering a flexible and supportive framework for early-career educators.

BTAP Requirements for Missouri Teachers

To fulfill Missouri’s BTAP requirements, participants must complete:

✅ An onsite or online BTAP course offered by MSTA
✅ One structured learning experience each quarter
✅ Learning aligned to four professional growth domains

Core Domains of BTAP

Each BTAP experience is built around these four teacher development areas:

Classroom Manager & Community Builder
Create a well-managed, inclusive learning environment.
Instructional Designer & Facilitator of Learning
Design engaging lessons and foster student thinking.
Professional Educator
Demonstrate ethical practice and engage in ongoing improvement.
Reflective Learner
Practice self-reflection to enhance teaching methods.

BTAP Learning Options (2024–25)

MSTA’s BTAP offers flexible formats to help you meet certification standards while building real-world teaching skills. Quarterly learning options include:

Online or In-Person BTAP Course
The foundation of the program—available year-round.
Beyond the Book Club
Choose a monthly or two-month book study focused on teaching strategies, classroom culture, or work-life balance.
On-Demand Online Courses
Learn anytime, anywhere with self-paced modules.
Mini-Course Combos
Complete short, focused webinars (30 minutes each) when it fits your schedule.
Virtual New Teachers Summit
Attend a live online conference led by veteran educators on timely classroom topics.
Virtual Teacher Meetups
Join quarterly peer-led sessions with teachers grouped by grade span—elementary, middle, high school, or special areas.

Why Choose MSTA’s BTAP?

✔️ Aligned with Missouri certification requirements
✔️ Flexible learning options—online, on-demand, and live
✔️ Led by experienced Missouri educators
✔️ Builds community across grade levels and subject areas
✔️ Supports new teacher retention and professional growth

Who Should Participate?

First- and second-year teachers in Missouri
HR directors and principals seeking BTAP solutions for new hires
Educators seeking PD hours aligned to DESE expectations

How to Register

Visit msta.org/btap to explore upcoming options and register for the format that fits your schedule and learning style.

FAQs

Does this program meet Missouri’s BTAP requirements?
Yes. MSTA’s program aligns with the Missouri Teacher Development System and satisfies the two-year BTAP mandate.

Can I complete BTAP requirements virtually?
Yes. All required elements are available in online formats.

What’s the time commitment?
Expect to participate in quarterly learning sessions and complete either the onsite or online BTAP course.

Start Strong with MSTA’s Beginning Teacher Assistance Program

Build a teaching foundation rooted in professional excellence, meaningful mentorship, and flexible support. Join BTAP today and take the next step in your teaching career.