CMCSS Teacher Residency Program Continues to Grow, over 70 New Educators Signed in September
September 29, 2021
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events
may be not be relevant for the current school year.
Over 160 future educators are now actively participating in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) Teacher Residency Program. The district recently held two signing day events, in collaboration with Austin Peay State University and Nashville State Community College, celebrating the newest group of teacher residents.
Thirty-seven residents signed on to the Elementary Teacher Residency Program and 34 residents committed to the Elementary-Middle Teacher Residency Program.
The district offers multiple pathways to obtain a degree or certification. Programs range from one year to three years, depending on the degree or certification involved. Partnerships with Austin Peay State University, Lipscomb University, and Nashville State Community College allow the residents to pursue a non-traditional approach to teaching.
“Clarksville-Montgomery County was the first in the state to partner with a college or university to offer a Grow Your Own Educator program,” said Dr. Sean Impeartrice, Chief Academic Officer. “We know how important it is to invest in our community and to recruit high-quality, diverse teachers. This program achieves both.”
Demetrius Winn is just one example of this mission in action. Winn began his career with CMCSS as a custodian but always had the desire to motivate others.
“Growing up, my mom and dad were in ministry. I loved to see how they gave back to the youth, and I have always wanted to do that as well,” said Winn during the September 24 signing event.
It wasn’t until a principal noticed Winn’s positive impact on the students, that he began to consider teaching. “She told me she noticed how I interacted with the students and motivated them. She pushed me to consider this program, and it’s been perfect.”
Winn will continue serving as an Educational Assistant at Kenwood Middle School while he completes his courses through Austin Peay. The innovative approach of TRP brings residents into the classroom to learn real-world skills while also learning the fundamentals of the teaching profession.
Winn knows firsthand the important role of today’s educators. “My biggest goal is to help students find a love for school. Being a support to them when they may not have support anywhere else,” he said. “Teaching is more than just science. It’s more than just a classroom. I want them to know how today impacts the rest of their lives.”
About the Teacher Residency Program
Since 2018, CMCSS has been actively pursuing a non-traditional approach to earn a degree or certification. Teacher Residents will serve as educational assistants and contribute to excellence by providing instructional and non-instructional support to students while learning best practices for a career in education from an outstanding CMCSS educator. To learn more about the program, visit cmcss.net/trp.
