Hello everyone,
I want to spotlight a recent feature from ATPE News, title "Building the Teacher Pipeline: Corpus Christi ISD's Associate Teacher Program Opens Doors for Future Educators." From paraprofessional to teacher of record, 2025 ATPE Charles Pickitt Associate Educator of the Year Award winner Ashlee Galvan found her calling through Corpus Christi ISD's innovative Associate Teacher program. With mentorship from leaders like fellow ATPE member Diana Ybarra, she's proof this program is transforming lives.
This story highlights how Corpus Christi ISD is helping future educators gain classroom experience, build confidence, and transition into teaching roles through its Associate Teacher program. It's an inspiring example of how districts can grow their own talent while addressing the teacher shortage.
Up for discussion: What do you think are some other effective ways schools and districts can support paraprofessionals or aspiring educators on their path to becoming teachers?
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David George
Managing Editor
Association of Texas Professional Educators
atpe.org | atpenews.org
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