Our first resident teacher cohort is officially in the classroom!
The group of seven students, from Texas State University and Concordia University, are the first to take part in Round Rock ISD’s paid resident teacher program. They were chosen to participate in this inaugural alternative student teaching experience this past June.
Resident Teacher, Macy Tanner, said she’s excited to get to work this year and looks forward to being able to apply what she’s been learning in the classroom.
“I like to think of it as a baker going through culinary school and not being able to bake anything until their final year, and it’s like you could practice and think and plan all these things all you want, but until you have that practical classroom experience, it’s just gonna go in the noggin and it’s not really going to come out until you’re able to use it,” she said. “It’s nice because I’m still learning, but now I’m able to try out the things I’m learning in real time.”
Tanner will be learning and co-teaching under seventh and eighth grade Language Arts teacher, Mikita Blakley, who is eager to impart her wisdom after 26 years “in the business.”
“I believe I have a lot of experiences I can offer from classroom management, to lesson planning and how to build connections with students,” Blakley said.
Blakley also hopes she can impart her love for teaching onto her residents.
“They say that a lot of teachers leave the profession within the first five or seven years… I hope my residents feel so supported and equipped over the course of this year that they will want to continue on this path and not leave the profession.”
Tanner said she is ready to learn all that she can, and feels confident that she will be molded into a great teacher during her year with Mrs. Blakley.
“Before the students were even in the building, we heard over and over again about how everyone supports each other, and are just so positive, and will be there for you… From what I’ve witnessed over the last two or three weeks, I can say that is true.”
After completing the program and meeting their state requirements, these educators will earn a year of teaching service as contracted teachers at CD Fulkes Middle School.
