Round Rock ISD’s inaugural cohort of teacher residents is nearing the end of their first year in the classroom.
Since August, seven teacher residents from Texas State University and Concordia University have been learning alongside experienced educators at C.D. Fulkes Middle School through the district’s paid teacher residency program. The program, RROCK Residency, launched in June of 2024 and offers a hands-on alternative to traditional student teaching, combining classroom experience with a competitive salary, full benefits, and a year of teaching service.
Michelle Jeffers, a Teacher Resident Professional Development teammate at Round Rock ISD, said the residency model has been unique.
“Unlike traditional student teaching, where teacher residents might join after routines are established, our residents start the year with us,” Jeffers said. “They’re in the trenches from day one—meeting the students and learning about them alongside their host teacher. This model allows them to be integral to the classroom culture from the start.”
Abby Walker, a teacher residents at C.D. Fulkes, reflected on the value of spending an entire academic year in the classroom.
“I would recommend it over and over again,” Walker said. “Being here the whole school year, I saw classroom management from the beginning—how to establish routines and procedures. That experience is something you just wouldn’t get in a traditional student teaching placement.”
For Walker, who hopes to teach third or fourth grade next year, witnessing student growth firsthand has been one of the most rewarding aspects.
“I’ve seen tremendous growth with students who were defiant or had no motivation,” she said. “By building relationships and getting to know them, I saw a spark—and then they wanted to learn from me and do the work.”
Research shows that teacher residents are 70% more likely to remain in the profession and deliver more substantial student outcomes in their first year. This data aligns with Round Rock ISD’s broader effort to invest in teacher development and retention by providing residents with the tools and support needed to succeed long-term.
Walker credits the program’s mentorship and professional development with giving her a head start on her teaching career.
“Because of this program, I’m already reaching out to principals and preparing for interviews,” she said. “Here, I have mentors setting up these opportunities for me—resources I know my friends in traditional student teaching placements aren’t getting.”
C.D. Fulkes Principal Penny Oates said the Teacher Residents are leaving a positive impact on the school.
“It has been our privilege to host all seven Residents at C.D. Fulkes,” she said. “Their contribution to our staff and students has been such a pleasure to observe. I know they will each go on to have successful careers and will be impactful leaders wherever they teach. I would love to keep them all here if I could!”
Upon completing the residency and meeting state requirements, six of our seven educators will have chosen to transition to fully contracted teaching positions within the district. Round Rock ISD remains committed to fostering a collaborative environment that supports new teachers and encourages career longevity.
For those considering a similar path, Walker’s advice is simple: “Just do it—and once you’re there, jump in. Being involved from day one accelerated my learning. To the kids, I was their teacher first and a student second, and that made all the difference.”