Teach Where it Matters

our americorps program for Reshaping Texas Classrooms

Teach Where it Matters

Rural Texas faces an acute teacher shortage, with challenges unique to these communities. Limited access to amenities, geographical barriers to Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs), and financial burdens tied to residency requirements hinder recruitment and retention. Statewide initiatives like TEA’s Grow Your Own program and Alternative Certification Programs help, but they often fail to address these rural-specific issues.

At CEN, we believe the solution lies in growing talent locally. By focusing on both short-term pathways for adult learners and long-term plans for students, we aim to build a sustainable teacher workforce that transforms rural education.

Partnered with:

Supported by an AmeriCorps grant, this innovative program cultivates local talent through accessible pathways like work-based internships, mentor teacher training, career advising, and the Registered Apprenticeship P-20 Teacher Program.

Our Mission:To inspire, equip, and empower individuals to transform education in rural communities.

Goal: Establish a teacher pipeline for rural districts by cultivating local talent and offering accessible pathways to teacher certification.

Program Logistics:

• District Recruitment: Schools identify candidates to serve locally.

• AmeriCorps Service: Participants serve as Instructional Support Specialists in rural classrooms, gaining real-world experience and mentorship while working toward teacher certification.

• Benefits:
• Compensation for members is comparable to standard paraprofessional salary.
• Members eligible for the Segal Education Award scholarship upon successful program completion.
• Comprehensive onboarding, mentorship, and certification support.

This initiative empowers individuals to support education while preparing them to lead classrooms in rural Texas.

Why Teach Where It Matters?

• Gain classroom experience while earning a living allowance (wage) and education award.

• Receive in-person and virtual coaching support and feedback.

• Partnership and collaboration with an on-campus mentor teacher to provide practical experience and insight.

Our Collaborative Approach

Through partnerships with West Texas A&M, East Texas A&M, and other educational institutions, we offer:

• Paid internships and on-the-job training.

• Certification pathways for aspiring teachers.

• Mentorship programs to support and inspire educators.

Who Can Join?

• Year 13/14 learners and/or recent high school graduates.

• Career paraprofesionals seeking advancement or striving toward teacher certification.

• College students seeking a rewarding career in education.

• Community members ready to make a difference.

Real Wins. Real Impact.

How AmeriCorps and CEN Helped One Rural Educator Live Her Dream

For most of her life, Throckmorton has been home for one remarkable woman who’s rediscovered her lifelong dream—teaching where it matters most.

How Venus ISD Has Benefited from AmeriCorps and CEN

Watch on youtube

Get Involved!

Your community needs passionate individuals to build confidence, nurture aspirations, and spark a lifelong love of learning. Whether you’re ready to pursue a career in teaching or looking to support this initiative, join us today to create a brighter future for rural Texas!

Contact Us to learn more about enrollment, sponsorships, or how you can support the Teach Where It Matters initiative.