District leaders from across the state visited the city this week to learn more about a Midland Independent School District (MISD) program designed to enhance student learning through effective teaching.
According to a MISD news release, the program, Opportunity Culture, places teachers with a proven track record of student growth in leadership roles. These teachers lead and coach teams that include innovative teaching roles, paraprofessional support, and increased tutoring time. Multi-Classroom Leaders (MCLs) are rewarded with $17,000 annually, and Opportunity Culture initiatives are implemented on 27 district campuses.
"Opportunity Culture is a key part of our strategic plan's commitment to grow and develop staff," said Jessie Garcia, MISD's executive director of talent acquisition and development. "We are proud to share the successes of this program and collaborate with other leaders who are passionate about developing high-quality educators and innovative strategic practices."
The news release said that visitors interacted with MCLs and observed classrooms during visits to South Elementary and Alamo Junior High. The district officials hope to implement similar programs within their communities after learning how MCLs are selected and how strategic staffing models aim to improve student grades.
MISD was among the first districts in the state to establish a Teacher Residency Model through the Opportunity Culture initiative. This program allows seniors at the University of Texas Permian Basin to follow MCLs for a year to hone their teaching skills.