A Message from the Dean of the Future Educators Academy
Welcome to the Future Educators Academy! I'm thrilled to serve as the Coordinator for this exciting program at Waco ISD. With 16 years of experience in education, including roles as a middle school Science teacher, Instructional Specialist, Dean of the ATLAS Academy, and Assistant Principal at Tennyson Middle School, I'm passionate about nurturing the next generation of educators.
Our program has experienced steady and significant growth, with enrollment tripling since its launch. This expansion is a testament to the program's value and our sustained commitment to student recruitment. The core of our model is the hands-on experience provided at South Waco Elementary. This setting is where our students from University High and Waco High School participate in crucial work-based learning by partnering with veteran elementary teachers and applying skills in a real-world classroom environment. Our dedicated P-TECH staff provides targeted mentorship to ensure students are well-prepared and career-ready for the field of education.
In addition to our current student goals, I plan to actively engage with parents, middle school students, and counselors to inform them about the exceptional opportunities and benefits offered by our Future Educators Academy. By doing so, we aim to recruit well-prepared students who are eager to embark on their teaching careers in ninth grade.
I hope to leverage my diverse educational experiences to support our teachers and students in building a model P-TECH program in Texas. Our goal is to create a program that serves as a benchmark for others to emulate, attracting visitors from across the state seeking guidance and inspiration.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Knight
Coordinator of Future Educators Academy
The Essential intent of the Waco ISD’s Future Educators Academy is to grow, employ, and retain a diverse teacher workforce that supports student success. The students have many great opportunities at the Future Educators Academy. These benefits include:
- The opportunity to graduate with an Educator Aide 11 certification, college credit hours, and/or an Associate Degree at no cost to the student or parents/guardians
- Dual-credit courses mirror a college setting, offered in partnership with McLennan Community College.
- Support teams are provided to help students throughout their studies.
- Organizational Skills on how to study, plan, take notes, and manage time are incorporated into all high school courses.
- Academic counseling to help students develop the skills needed to be successful
- College and career advice to plan future career and education options and opportunities
- Work-Based Learning opportunities beginning their 9th grade year
My passion is to help grow the education profession and develop teacher leaders.
