Three standout college student teachers from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)  were invited to shadow teachers at Northgate Crossing Elementary School in Spring ISD for a week-long, hands-on experience. This program serves a dual purpose: recruiting talented bilingual educators into the district while providing college students with invaluable insights into the teaching profession.

Valeria Portales, Mildred Ruiz and Valerie Avitia participated in the program expecting to gain real-world teaching experience, but they left with much more than they had imagined.

“It was a great experience,” Portales said. “The kids were amazing, the teachers were amazing and it was a very nice experience from start to finish — so much more than I expected.”

The UTRGV students were placed in classrooms that are a part of the district’s dual language program, where students receive instruction in both English and Spanish while learning core subjects. It was important that they grasped the program, and each of the three student teachers passed with flying colors.

“These future teachers immediately understood what it meant to be in a two-way dual language program,” said Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa.  “They quickly picked up those strategies and did a great job using them in the classroom.” 

Although the student teachers initially arrived as unfamiliar faces, the Northgate Crossing students quickly embraced them and formed meaningful connections. Hinojosa noted that the enthusiastic response reflects the student teachers’ dynamic approach and natural ability to engage and inspire their young learners.

“Our students were on point,” Hinojosa said. “These young teachers commanded the lesson and connected with the students. We believe it is important that the teachers form relationships with the students and they did just that.”

The week culminated in a small ceremony held in the school library, where the three student teachers reflected on their experiences. As Hinojosa encouraged and congratulated them on a successful week, she placed folders in front of them. Inside was an official intent-to-hire letter, signifying the district’s commitment to offering them positions upon the completion of their collegiate requirements.

Upon signing the letters, all three students lit up with excitement, and some shed tears of joy.

“I was not expecting this at all,” Portales said. “It was very nice to see that we were offered positions basically on the spot. It shows how open the district is to welcoming new teachers.”

Beyond gaining hands-on experience, the student teachers developed a deep appreciation for the culture and community within Spring ISD.

“It’s a very tight knit family here,” Portales added. “Everyone is just so nice and welcoming, I could definitely see myself working at a place like this.”