Program allows future educators to complete a bachelor’s degree, student teaching, and teacher certification in an accelerated program.
SNYDER, Texas — Snyder ISD welcomed its 2026–2027 TechTeach Across Texas resident teacher cohort Thursday afternoon as the candidates met with their host teachers for training and preparation for the upcoming school year.
This year’s resident and host teacher teams are:
Amber Ozbirn, resident teacher, and Nicole Dominguez, host teacher
Caitlyn Tiller, resident teacher, and Heather McCormick, host teacher at Snyder Junior High School
Wynter Espinoza, resident teacher, and Shana Robbins, host teacher at Snyder Primary School
Kellye Starnes, Snyder ISD’s TechTeach site coordinator, is beginning her 12th year leading the program. Throughout the year, she will work alongside the host teachers to provide coaching, feedback and support to the resident teachers.
Offered through Texas Tech University in partnership with Snyder ISD, TechTeach provides an accelerated pathway for individuals who have earned an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree. Qualifying Snyder ISD students who earn the required degree through dual-credit coursework may also pursue this pathway after high school graduation.
During the 12-month program, candidates complete their upper-level coursework online through Texas Tech University while gaining daily, hands-on experience in Snyder ISD classrooms. Candidates immediately apply the principles and teaching strategies from their coursework under the guidance of experienced host teachers and the site coordinator.
Upon successful completion, candidates earn a Bachelor of Science degree and a Standard Teaching Certificate. Successful candidates may also be offered employment and benefits with Snyder ISD.
To help make the pathway more affordable, Snyder ISD provides qualifying participants with up to $20,000 in program cost reimbursement following successful completion of the program and a commitment to teach in the district.
Program Highlights
Complete a bachelor’s degree, student teaching and teacher certification in 12 months
Earn upper-level course credit online through Texas Tech University
Complete student teaching in Snyder ISD classrooms
Receive coaching from experienced host teachers and a local site coordinator
Earn a Bachelor of Science degree and Standard Teaching Certificate
Become eligible for employment and benefits with Snyder ISD after successful completion
Receive up to $20,000 in program cost reimbursement from Snyder ISD
The partnership helps Snyder ISD develop future educators within the community while giving teacher candidates the experience, coaching, and support they need before leading classrooms of their own.
Learn more about the program timeline and requirements at www.snyderisd.net/getcertified.