A Solution for Filling Gaps Left by Texas' Teacher Shortage by Educating and Empowering Its Graduates
Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – This year, 70% of Texas teachers considered leaving the profession, according to a report released by the Texas State Teachers Association. Harmony Public Schools (HPS) is addressing the teacher shortage with an innovative program called, Grow Your Own Teacher (GYOT).
Paying for college and finding a job after graduation is something students worry about, especially in today's economy. However, with Harmony Public Schools' GYOT program, students' minds are put at ease knowing they will have a job after graduation.
The GYOT program identifies and develops Harmony graduates who are interested in pursuing a teaching career.
Selma Besic, 8th grade ELA teacher at Harmony School of Excellence in Austin, has been in the GYOT program since 2018 following her high school graduation from Harmony School of Innovation in Fort Worth.
“I knew I wanted to be a teacher, but was worried about finding a school to fit my philosophy and goals. I grew up at Harmony and saw the incredible work they do as a community,” she said.
“This program has given me an advantage in experience and knowledge. I've had incredible mentors who have taught me the most valuable lessons.”
HPS's GYOT program supports students by assisting them in earning an undergraduate degree and a Texas teacher certificate by awarding students up to a $20,000 reimbursement for tuition and fees, one-on-one coaching from a highly qualified teacher mentor, and professional development from central office experts. After earning their teacher certification, GYOT residents return to HPS as classroom teachers for a minimum of two years.
Esmeralda Garcia has also been a Harmony student since 1st grade, and entered GYOT upon graduating from Harmony School of Discovery in Houston in 2021.
To learn more about the GYOT Program, Teachers are Available for Interviews, Photos & Videos
WHO: Two former students entered the education field due to Harmony Public Schools' Grow Your Own Teacher program
WHAT: Harmony Public Schools' Grow Your Own Teacher program assists former students in earning an undergraduate degree and a Texas teacher certificate by awarding up to $20,000 for tuition and fees, one-on-one coaching from a highly qualified teacher mentor, and professional development.
WHERE:
Harmony School of Excellence - Austin
2100 East St. Elmo Rd.
Austin, TX 78744
Harmony School of Innovation – Austin
2124 East St. Elmo Rd., A
Austin, TX 78744
WHEN: Open Call
HOW: Contact Tracie Seed, District Communications & Marketing Director
737-900-7624 (Call or Text)
tseed@harmonytx.org
