Becoming a certified teacher is a challenge—it takes commitment, persistence, and heart. The ESC Region 13 Educator Certification Program (ECP) offers multiple pathways to certification, each designed to accommodate different learning styles, delivery methods, and schedules, allowing you to find the path that works best for you. As a new application cycle begins, we talked to some of our recently certified teachers about the paths they chose.
Many who completed training in our structured in-person cohorts highlighted how this supportive, collaborative format offered the practical experience, guidance, and community they needed to thrive. They told us how the program not only fully prepared them to meet certification requirements, but it also gave them the confidence and skills to become the most effective teachers they could be.
Here are some of the insights our teachers shared about the in-person cohort experience.
Strong Sense of Community
In-person cohorts offer a strong sense of community. Learning alongside peers creates a supportive network that helps beginning educators overcome the challenges of the profession.
“My ECP Cohort Classes felt like a warm hug. I would not have the confidence or knowledge I have now if I had not shared stories and ideas with my cohort in a collaborative setting.”–Macie, 3rd Grade Teacher
“Being part of a cohort made the experience even better, since we were able to support each other, share ideas, and grow together as educators.”–Raul, 5th Grade Bilingual Teacher
Opportunities for Deeper Learning
In-person cohorts create opportunities for deeper learning. Working with a cohort of individuals with a variety of backgrounds and perspectives makes classes engaging and insightful. Educators can dig deeper into issues through dialogue and organic problem-solving.
“The in-person certification program at ESC Region 13 made a lasting impression on me. The face-to-face interactions with the diverse cohort were invaluable, as each member contributed unique perspectives and experiences that enriched my learning.”–Tega, High School Math Teacher
“I really appreciated the learning experience of ECP. The diversity of individuals allowed me to learn so much more than if I had taken only online classes.”–Macie, 3rd Grade Teacher
Providing Hands-On Practice
In-person cohorts provide hands-on practice. Authentic classroom experiences and structured training bridge the gap between theory and practice. In-person training provides the opportunity to observe and reflect, role-play, and receive feedback in a supportive environment with peers and facilitators.
“I absolutely loved my time in the ECP—it exceeded all my expectations. The curriculum was incredibly well-designed, with every class being 100% applicable to real-life situations. I felt fully prepared by the end of the program, thanks to the hands-on opportunities to practice what we were learning.”–Janell, 6th Grade Science Teacher
“I enjoyed coming to in-person classes because it gave me the chance to connect directly with instructors and engage in hands-on learning. The collaboration and relationships built in the program made learning more meaningful and impactful.”–Raul, 5th Grade Bilingual Teacher
Personalized Guidance, Structure, and Accountability
In-person cohorts give personalized guidance, structure, and accountability. The organized pace of the cohort keeps teachers motivated and on track. Regular feedback from the ECP team gives both clarity and confidence. Every cohort has a dedicated specialist, whose primary job is to teach and support the new teachers in her cohort.
“ECP provided me with practical knowledge and skills to foster a loving and effective learning environment for my students. They showed me how to craft lessons that reach every student. They provided a clear roadmap that laid out each step of the certification process and made it easy for me to know what was coming and how to achieve it. I am so grateful to ESC Region 13 for turning a long-time dream into a reality for me.”–Bailee, 3rd Grade Teacher
“Where would I be without ESC Region 13? Everyone provided guidance and support during a time that was SUPER scary for me and prepared me in a way that really set me up for success during the year. 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, High School English Teacher
Conclusion
The voices of our newest certified teachers show how powerful the right training, support, and community can be in shaping their journey. They found confidence, connection, and the practical skills to step into the classroom ready to make a difference.
Now it’s your turn. If you or someone you know wants to make a difference in students’ lives, please consider taking the first steps of teacher certification with the ESC Region 13 Educator Certification Program.
Visit our website for more information on the Educator Certification Program. Read more about ESC Region 13’s certifications here. You can also read other blog articles about certification here.
Are you ready to begin the application process? Get started by clicking here.
Still have questions? Reach out to our team at ecp@esc13.txed.net
Pamela Pate
Pamela Pate is the Program Manager of Secondary Certification for ESC Region 13's Educator Certification Program.
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