As the state works toward a goal of recruiting more teachers of color, several local districts, including Groton, Ledyard, Norwich, and Waterford, plan to participate in a program aimed at diversifying the teacher workforce in southeastern Connecticut. The 18-month Teacher Residency Program provides “an alternate route to elementary certification focused on increasing teachers of color across the state of Connecticut,” according to a program description. Resident candidates will work in a school setting, earning a salary and benefits, while pursuing coursework to become certified as a teacher, Ryan Donlon, LEARN’s associate executive director, said in a phone interview. Applications from potential candidates, who must have a bachelor's degree and “demonstrate a strong commitment to children,” are due March 5, according to LEARN.