In today’s fast-paced world, the quality of education is more crucial than ever. With this in mind, PantherTerm (Teacher Education Residency Model), a post-bachelorette teacher residency program, is breaking new ground in teacher training and development.
This innovative partnership with Whitlowe R. Green College of Education at Prairie View A&M University and Spring ISD aims to ensure that new teachers are prepared from day one, ultimately benefiting students and the community.
The PantherTerm program is a year-long teacher residency, under the leadership of Natasha Tillman, Project Director of Opportunity Culture, during which participants are paired with master-level mentor teachers. In addition to gaining certification, these residents also earn a graduate degree in education, receive a teacher’s salary funded through a grant provided by Texas A&M. The goal is to create well-rounded, highly skilled teachers who are ready to make an impact in the classroom.
Dr. Hinojosa, Superintendent of Schools for Spring ISD, commended the work of the PantherTerm program and the importance of investing in teachers to provide the best possible education for students.
“The success of students depends on having teachers who are passionate, caring, and highly effective in their teaching approach,” Hinojosa said. “By prioritizing the development and support of teachers, Spring ISD is committed to helping students achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.”
A key aspect of the program is the commitment the residents make to Spring ISD. After completing their year of residency, the newly trained teachers agree to serve the district for at least three years. This approach ensures continuity and allows the school district to develop a strong, stable teaching workforce.
The success of the PantherTerm program has attracted national attention. Representatives from the National Center for Teacher Residency, along with University representatives from across the nation, visited Spring ISD recently, as they recognized the district’s exemplary partnership with universities and the exceptional work being done with the TERM residents. Out of the five partnering school districts in the TERM program, Spring ISD has the most teacher residents, hosting nine of the current 16-member cohort.
“The leadership at Spring ISD gets it.” said Dr. Val Hill-Jackson, Assistant Professor, P12 Public School Administration from Texas A&M University. “Not only do you get the ‘why,’ but their leaders have the capacity to make it happen.”
The visit from the National Center for Teacher Residency served as an opportunity to showcase the hard work of not only the residents but also the schools hosting the teacher residencies and the mentors who play an integral role in training, growing, and developing these future educators.
PantherTerm is a testament to the power of collaboration between universities and school districts. By working together, they are shaping the future of education and paving the way for highly skilled, dedicated teachers who are ready to make a difference in the lives of their students from day one.