Central Texas
EDUCATORS IN THE MAKING Killeen ISD introduces young students to teaching
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s school districts across Texas look for ways to strengthen the future teacher pipeline, Killeen ISD is introducing students to the profession earlier than ever while building confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of purpose. This year, Reeces Creek Elementary launched a Future Teachers Club for fifth graders, connecting students with high school juniors and seniors enrolled in the district’s Career Center education program. The initiative gives students an early look at teaching while helping them grow as leaders and communicators. At the campus, 10 high school education interns were paired with fifth-grade students who had expressed interest in becoming teachers. The groups met throughout the year, building relationships and learning from one another before leading a hands-on literacy event for younger students.
A spring reading During the spring semester, the fifth graders and their high school mentors hosted a “read along” for kindergarten and first-grade classes. Students took turns reading aloud, leading discussions, and guiding activities. Fifth graders led interactive lessons, asking younger students to identify how characters were feeling and act out emotions, turning reading into an engaging, student-led experience. The program is designed to give students an early understanding of what it means to be an educator while reinforcing key skills such as communication, leadership, and empathy. “This experience has been special to witness our students grow in confidence as they step into leadership roles,” said Reeces Creek counselor Shana Munoz. “They’re not just learning; they’re beginning to see themselves as future educators.”
High school students also benefit from the experience, gaining real-world practice as they prepare for careers in education. Both schools are part of Killeen ISD, which serves about 41,000 students. “We want to get kids excited about reading,” said Alannah Bush, a junior and education intern. “It’s meaningful to work with students who are already thinking about becoming teachers.”
For the young students, the experience offers both inspiration and a clearer sense of what lies ahead. “My teachers always show respect and kindness to me,” said student Edith Cruz. “I want to do the same thing and make kids feel happy and comfortable.” H This story is courtesy of Killeen ISD.
This school year, Killeen ISD launched a Future Teachers Club for fifth graders to help them connect with high school students enrolled in the district’s Career Center education program. This initiative gives the elementary students an early look at teaching careers. Photos courtesy of Killeen ISD
issuu.com/tasb-org | June/July 2026 |
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