photo of principals and principal fellowship program finalists

SNYDER, Texas - Snyder ISD announced the three finalists in the first cohort of the Principal Residency Program. Aleida Juarez, Amy Ford, and Kaycee Schniers were notified of their selection on Friday afternoon. 


Snyder ISD educators were given the opportunity to apply for the program through a grant-funded partnership between Snyder ISD and Sul Ross University.  Those selected will earn a Master’s in Educational Leadership and earn their Principal as Instructional Leader Certificate.  Dr. Rachael McClain, Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Innovation, stated, “We had many qualified candidates. I was pleased to see the interest and commitment among our educators.”  


The Principal residents will participate in a 16-month in-district program that involves a hands-on internship from SISD mentors and online classes from Sul Ross.  Their entire focus will be on the internship program, and they will not be assigned to a classroom.  The grant will fund each candidate's base salary along with the costs of tuition and books. They will receive academic instruction through Sul Ross University while being mentored by current Snyder ISD principals.


“We are grateful for the partnership with Sul Ross University and the grant that is allowing us to offer this program,” stated Dr. Eddie Bland, Superintendent of Schools for Snyder ISD.  “As educators, we understand the importance of continued education. The chance to participate in a program to earn an advanced degree and gain new skills and knowledge that is fully grant-funded is an unbelievable opportunity.”