Snyder ISD continues to see the lasting impact of its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs as former students return to serve their community in education.
When Miss Velasquez was a student at Snyder High School, she enrolled in the Teaching and Training pathway with Mrs. Wendy Hunter. As part of that program, she served as a high school intern in Mrs. Thamez’s elementary classroom. Today, she has returned to that same classroom as a college intern through the TechTeach Across Rural Texas program offered by the Texas Tech University College of Education.
The TechTeach program is designed for students who have earned an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree, including Snyder High School dual-credit students. Participants complete their Bachelor’s degree, student teaching, and teaching certification in just 13 months through an immersive partnership with Snyder ISD.
Teacher candidates receive individualized coaching from experienced site coordinators and mentor teachers, applying what they learn from online coursework directly in their classrooms. Upon completion, they graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree and a Standard Teaching Certificate, with many offered employment in Snyder ISD.
To encourage future educators, Snyder ISD provides up to $20,000 in program cost reimbursement after successful completion and commitment to the district. Combined with tuition waivers and scholarships available through Western Texas College, students can earn their degree and certification without the burden of heavy student debt.
📸 The first photo was taken at the At’l Do Pumpkin Patch in 2021 when Miss Velasquez was Mrs. Thamez’s high school intern. She was her helper for two years. The second photo was taken this year—same place, same smiles—as Miss Velasquez works toward her bachelor’s degree as a TechTeach Candidate.
Mrs. Thamez shared, “We’re so thankful for programs like the Snyder High School Intern Program and Tech Teach, which help grow and develop amazing future educators like Miss Velasquez. It’s truly so special to see it come full circle.”
Learn more about how to get certified and view the program timeline at www.snyderisd.net/getcertified