Harlandale ISD has officially launched its groundbreaking Educational Partners initiative, a program designed to fill classroom vacancies at all levels with degreed individuals who have diverse skills and experiences from various professions. This program ensures that our students are taught by either a certified teacher or a degreed professional (Educational Partner).
This innovative program has opened doors for those who have long dreamed of making a difference in education, but may not have pursued traditional teacher certification paths. The response to the Educational Partners initiative has been overwhelmingly positive and has significantly expanded the district’s teaching pool. With the support of the Harlandale ISD School Board, Educational Partners receive 90 percent of first-year teacher pay, five local days, a $1,000 recruitment stipend, access to health care benefits, and Teacher Retirement contributions.
Since its launch on July 22, Harlandale ISD has already received 86 applications, resulting in the hiring of 58 Educational Partners by the week of August 5. These new hires bring a wealth of experience from various professions, who will now contribute their skills and knowledge in our classrooms.
“The Educational Partners program is a testament to our commitment of innovation in education,” said Mr. Gerardo Soto, Superintendent of Schools at Harlandale ISD. “This initiative is about more than filling positions; it’s about creating meaningful pathways for career fulfillment and personal growth while school districts across the state are facing a staffing crisis.”
The data from the initial application period highlights the program's impact:
58 Educational Partners hired to date
20 candidates are currently enrolled in Educator Preparation Programs (EPP)
8 candidates have partially passed certification exams
29 candidates expressed interest in enrolling in an Educator Preparation Programs (EPP)
17 are former Harlandale ISD graduates including graduates from Frank Tejeda Academy, Harlandale High School and McCollum High School
9 Harlandale ISD paraprofessionals from the 2023-2024 school year have transitioned to Educational Partners
One particularly moving moment was when a newly hired Educational Partner expressed her gratitude, tearfully sharing how this opportunity will change her life and was a “dream come true.” Her story underscores the program’s potential to transform lives.
“Our Educational Partners program is redefining what it means to be an educator at Harlandale ISD,” said Dr. Melinda Salinas, Harlandale ISD Executive Director of Human Resources. “By welcoming talented professionals from various fields, we are enriching our classrooms with real-world expertise and perspectives. This initiative reflects our dedication to empowering individuals to make a significant impact on our students’ lives, while also providing them with a rewarding career path.”
Harlandale ISD remains committed to supporting its Educational Partners as they embark on this new journey. The district offers comprehensive support and mentoring, including access to EPP and guidance throughout the certification process. This support ensures that Educational Partners are well-prepared to inspire and educate our district’s next generation of learners.
Harlandale ISD is excited to welcome students back to fully staffed campuses on August 12. For the first time in more than five years, every classroom will be taught by either a certified teacher or a degreed Educational Partner.