Lockhart ISD Relaunches Teacher Fellows Program in Partnership with Texas State University

LISD

On Monday evening, Lockhart Independent School DIstrict and Texas State University relaunched their Teacher Fellows Program partnership, in alignment with the district value of “UnLocking Potential” in its staff.

Teacher fellows will be immersed in classroom teaching at Clear Fork Elementary while simultaneously obtaining their M.Ed. The program allows LISD to address early career teacher needs based on an exchange of resources between the university and the school district.

“I’m so proud and excited for these new Fellows,” Clear Fork Principal Rebecca Leonard said. “This is not only going to provide a great opportunity for them, but a great opportunity for their students.”

Kylie Cantu and Victoria Trevino proudly signed the memorandum of understanding and officially became the district’s two newest teacher fellows.

Jennifer Gonzales, Kindergarten teacher at Clear Fork Elementary, will serve as the fellows’ “exchange teacher” — an on-site mentor who provides support and guidance as an experienced educator. 

“As a former fellow myself, having support during my first year made a huge difference,” Kindergarten teacher Gonzales said. “First year teachers like Kylie and Victoria have so much to bring. Their students are going to be at an advantage and hitting their 1.5 goals faster because of this program.”

The fellows and exchange teacher were also accompanied by Superintendent Mark Estrada and Texas State’s Director of Teacher Fellows Dr. Laura Duhon.

“I was in the Teacher Fellows Program’s inaugural year, and I started my career right here in Lockhart,” Director of Teacher Fellows Duhon said. “It’s so special to be part of this as we come full circle and embark on our 30th year.”

Texas State’s Teacher Fellows program first launched in Lockhart ISD 30 years ago but closed due to the district’s lack of growth. However, with LISD’s recent unprecedented growth, the district saw an opportunity to bring the program back.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to continue my education and teach in the classroom,” Teacher Fellow Trevino said. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen.”

“Mrs. Leonard worked really hard to relaunch this program, and I’m really thankful that everything worked out,” Teacher Fellow Cantu said. “I’m so excited to get started.”

The relaunch of the Teacher Fellows program adds another beneficial partnership between LISD and Texas State, in addition to the Teacher Residency Program.

“The Texas State Teacher Fellows Program is another fantastic opportunity for our newest staff to UnLock Potential in themselves as educators,” Estrada said. “Investing in our teachers means Lockhart ISD students will be at an advantage because they are learning from the best.”