Consider This from NPR Can't Find a Teacher? Grow Your Own
Mar 22, 2023
Cory Turner, an NPR education reporter, delves into the innovative Mississippi Teacher Residency program, which is helping to alleviate teacher shortages in Jackson. He highlights the dynamic efforts by local districts to recruit and transform paraprofessionals into certified teachers. The conversation emphasizes community commitment and engagement in developing a diverse teaching workforce. Featuring stories of real educators like Kimberly Pate and Jennifer Carter, the podcast showcases how these initiatives are positively impacting both teachers and students.
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Recruitment Challenges in Jackson
- Tommy Knowles Jr., a recruiter for Jackson Public Schools, faces the challenge of high teacher turnover.
- The district loses 20% of its teachers annually, exacerbated by low pay and pandemic burnout.
Kimberly Pate's Story
- Kimberly Pate, a classroom assistant for two decades, couldn't afford teacher training.
- The Mississippi Teacher Residency program offered her a fully paid master's degree and a higher salary.
The Mississippi Teacher Residency Program
- The Mississippi Teacher Residency program addresses teacher shortages by training existing school staff.
- Participants receive a fully funded master's degree and commit to teaching in the district for three years.