At Education Service Center Region 13, certification is not the finish line—it’s the launch point. Every year, candidates enter our Educator Certification Preparation (ECP) and Paraprofessional Institute programs with a desire to make a difference. What inspires us most is watching that desire turn into a measurable impact in classrooms across Texas. From paraprofessionals beginning their journey to teachers earning district-wide recognition, and even educators advancing into principal and superintendent roles, the ESC Region 13 Certification career pathways are structured to support advancement and growth at every stage.
Building Strong Foundations
For those just beginning their path into education, support matters.
Through university partnerships, we connect candidates to partners to complete degree requirements and transition smoothly into certification. For individuals stepping into schools as paraprofessionals, our ESC Region 13 Paraprofessional Institute provides practical, research-based strategies in reading, writing, and math instruction; behavior foundations; ethics; and the stages of learning—all designed to equip educational aides with the tools they need to succeed from day one.
One participant shared the following:
June 2025 Participant
ESC Region 13 Paraprofessional InstituteStrong preparation leads to strong classrooms. That impact is visible almost immediately.
First-Year Teachers Make Immediate Impact
Teachers in our ESC Region 13 ECP enter classrooms prepared and ready to lead. Many are recognized in their first year.
“My biggest accomplishment from the previous year would be earning my school’s ‘Teacher of Promise’ award.”
Ryan Johnson, Life Skills Teacher, Austin ISD
“I was voted Bastrop ISD Elementary Rockstar Rookie of the Year during my internship year!”
Bailee Renfro, Third Grade Teacher, Bastrop ISD
“I was nominated for Teacher of the Month, got a staff spotlight, and was Teacher of the Week. Though honestly, I think my biggest success was when one of my students told me after the STAAR test that my class really helped. her.”
Allison Cruser, English Teacher, Manor ISD
“One of my most memorable events as a first-year teacher was being voted on by the students and receiving a Teacher of the Month award!”
Amber McCue, Fifth Grade Teacher, Round Rock ISD
“Receiving an Accomplished rating on my initial TTESS observation was a profound affirmation that I am on the right path. It solidified my belief that teaching is where I truly belong.”
Emily Fuentes, Pre-K Teacher, Hays CISD
Recognition is meaningful, but the daily moments often matter most.
The Power of Daily Wins
At ESC Region 13 ECP, candidates are supported by Cohort Specialists and Field Supervisors who walk alongside them throughout their internship year. Time is built into coursework to reflect, collaborate, and celebrate growth.
As Hannah Gehl, ELAR/Special Education Teacher, Austin ISD, shared:
Hannah Gehl
English Language Arts Reading/Special Education, Austin ISDThis is the heart of teaching. It’s what our program is built to sustain.
Creating Long-Term Growth from Classroom Teacher to Educational Leader
For many educators, certification is just the beginning of a leadership journey.
“I received a Spotlight on Excellence award from the district. I created new programs, including a visit to the high school by bilingual elementary school students and a one-week trip to Panama for advanced students. The performance of MFHS students on the AP Spanish Language and Culture exam improved greatly this year.”
Kendall Moss, Spanish Teacher, Marble Falls ISD
“After three amazing years, I am now the new head choir director of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. I am the youngest head choir director in all of Aldine ISD and the youngest and only Latino director in all of Region 33 (TMEA Division).”
Benito Torres, Music Teacher, Aldine ISD
Our commitment to educator growth extends beyond the classroom.
Through the ESC Region 13 Principal Certification Network, working educators can prepare for the principalship through flexible, non-traditional pathways that reflect the real day-to-day leadership of Texas schools.
For those aspiring to district-level leadership, the ESC Region 13 Texas Superintendents’ Certification Institute prepares future superintendents to meet modern challenges while balancing demanding professional schedules.
From paraprofessional to superintendent, the career pathways are intentional.
A Community That Supports You
More than anything, our candidates speak about support.
“Luciano De Crescenzo said once, ‘We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing one another.’ That is what teaching is, and I am grateful to have had the support to truly fly as I’ve started my career.”
Allison Cruser
“Teaching is more than a profession. It’s a calling. I am incredibly grateful for the ESC Region Educator Certification Program, which provided flexible learning, real-time classroom strategies, and the kind of support that makes a lasting impact.”
Dr. Dawn St. Julien, Business Teacher, Beaumont ISD
At ESC Region 13, we don’t just prepare teachers to pass certification exams. We prepare educators to:
- Lead classrooms with confidence
- Build meaningful student relationships
- Earn recognition for excellence
- Advance into leadership
- Create lasting impact in Texas schools
Your Journey Starts at ESC Region 13
Teaching in Texas is one of the most rewarding ways to make a difference. Whether you are just beginning your degree, transitioning careers, seeking principal certification, or aspiring to become a superintendent. We are here and ready to support your journey.
Contact us for more information or to ask specific questions at:
- Website: teach.esc13.net
- Email: ecp@esc13.txed.net
- Phone: 512-919-5366
You can also explore one of our many blog articles about the certification process on the ESC Region 13 Blog, including “The Certification Journey: How Cohorts Make the Difference.” Your path to becoming a certified Texas educator can start today! We can’t wait to celebrate your accomplishments next.
Amy is the Coordinator for the Education Certification Program at ESC Region 13.
Add comment