Salvador G. Conca is a Colorado native and successful DU alumnus. He started out as a commercial truck driver for 14 years, then decided to become something more and achieve his lifelong dream: going to school to become an elementary education teacher.

Conca began his education with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality at the Metropolitan State College of Denver in 2000. He went on to receive his master’s degree in education from DU’s Morgridge College of Education, and, later, at 35 years old, took part in the Boettcher Teacher Residency Program (BTR), which helps individuals to become well-trained teachers in at-risk areas throughout Colorado. He also obtained his Principal’s License from DU’s Ritchie Certificate Program for Educational Leaders.

Conca managed to do most of this while simultaneously working and taking care of his growing family. In their 14 years of marriage, he and his wife Leah have had three children: Sal Jr., Gino and Sophia. While Concha took part in the BTR, he took the year off from working, which caused the family to make some big sacrifices. However, Conca says that it was worth it.

“As a driver, we were able to afford many comforts, but I was unfulfilled and wanted to make a difference for others, myself and my family,” he said. “The Boettcher Program gave me the platform in which to begin building my future as a successful teacher, husband and father. It has helped me to change my life for the better.”

The BTR, a Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC) program, originated with DU as its educational partner in 2004. Individuals who already had undergraduate degrees take part in the program, attending DU for hands-on training and graduate degrees. They have the opportunity to earn their master’s degree in education, a Colorado teaching license and experience a full-year work assignment with an established teacher.

About a year ago, however, the program adjusted its focus to assisting Colorado’s highest-need schools, which then made Adams State University in Alamosa its educational partner.

According to Rosann B.Ward, the PEBC president, the program is “committed to creating exceptional teachers and the Residency provides qualified candidates the comprehensive preparation they need, not only at the onset, but throughout their entire teaching careers”.

Conca is currently working with BTR as a Field Director. He mentors and manages BTR seminars and professional learning seminars, and collaborates with individuals in the program to help them through their residency year. He strongly feels that the BTR program is the reason for his success.
“I believe it is the direct result of the training and experience that I received during my first year residency through the Boettcher Program and the support that I continue to receive from my mentors, colleagues and family,” said Conca. “I continue to find success in a profession that I have come to respect and love.”

The program has placed over 180 teachers so far, and BTR is currently accepting applications for its 2015-2016 series. While the priority deadline has passed, applications will be accepted throughout February.

With this upcoming group of Boettcher Teachers, BTR is hoping to greatly expand its range to include the school districts of Alamosa, Durango/Cortez, La Junta/Rocky Ford and Montrose, as well as the counties of Denver Adams 12, Aurora, Brighton, Douglas, Englewood and Jefferson.

For additional information on applying to the program, hop online and visit their website, boettcherteachers.org.