From Odessa American, November 7, 2024
School district leaders from across Texas were in Midland Wednesday to observe Midland ISD’s successful implementation of Opportunity Culture.
The visit included campus tours, observing classrooms at South Elementary and Alamo Junior High, and interacting with Multi-Classroom Leaders (MCLs). MCLs are high-performing teachers who are selected to lead and coach groups of teachers to train them on instructional strategies and ongoing mentorship. Aside from the leadership opportunities, MCLs also earn financial stipends of up to $17,000 per year.
Visitors also had the opportunity to learn how the Opportunity Culture model can be implemented in their own districts. Topics of discussion included training and selection of MCLs, instructional support, and strategic staffing all designed to improve student outcomes.
“Opportunity Culture is a key part of our Strategic Plan’s commitment to grow and develop staff,” Jessie Garcia, MISD’s Executive Director of Talent Acquisition and Development, said in a news release. “We are proud to share the successes of this program and collaborate with other leaders who are passionate about developing high-quality educators and innovative strategic practices.”
MISD was one of the first two districts in Texas to launch a Teacher Residency Model through the Opportunity Culture initiative. The residency model allows college seniors at the University of Texas Permian Basin to shadow an MCL as a part of a year-long paid residency. This Grow Your Own Initiative allows MISD to recruit, develop, and ultimately retain top talent.
MISD now operates Opportunity Culture initiatives on 27 campuses.
Click here for information on attending upcoming site visits to districts using Opportunity Culture® models.