Texas A&M University–San Antonio hosted its ninth Best of Both Worlds symposium on Wednesday, Nov. 5, featuring a panel of education experts and community leaders who discussed strategies to address teacher recruitment and retention.
Ongoing teacher shortages continue to challenge schools across San Antonio and throughout Texas, with many districts reporting increased vacancy rates and rising post-pandemic attrition. The symposium explored the causes of these trends and highlighted solutions to strengthen the educator workforce pipeline.
“We assembled principals from a variety of K–12 districts, along with community leaders, to discuss how we can strengthen the teacher pipeline in Texas,” said Dr. Lawrence Scott, associate professor in the Department of Educator and Leadership Preparation and symposium moderator. “It’s important that we come together through events like this to build partnerships and initiatives that improve the educational landscape for those who need it most.”
Scott co-moderated the discussion with Dr. W. Sean Kearny, professor in the Department of Educator and Leadership Preparation. Associate Professor Dr. Elisabeth M. Krimbill helped plan and organize the symposium, which is presented by the College of Education and Human Development. The annual series addresses a variety of critical issues affecting the region and state.
As part of its commitment to strengthening the teacher pipeline, A&M–San Antonio launched the Texas Teacher Residency Preparation Route (TTRPR) this fall. The yearlong residency provides teacher candidates with hands-on classroom experience, professional mentorship, and integrated coursework—leading to an Enhanced Standard Certificate from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
Best of Both Worlds Panelists include: