Cy-Fair AFT, Texas AFT Launch iTeach Program

To help our members continue to grow professionally, Texas AFT has adopted a union's approach to alternative teacher certification. This summer, delegates to the Texas AFT convention in Dallas directed our union to explore the feasibility of a Texas AFT-owned accredited alternative certification program (ACP).

But a first step was visible on Sept. 27 in the Cy-Fair AFT union hall, as our local union held the first session for aspiring certified teachers as part of a partnership with iTeach.

The meeting began with a research-based and union-led professional development, which was attended by aspiring teachers and Cy-Fair educators. The second part of the session was dedicated to individual ACP work, one-on-one meetings, and test prep study groups.

This was a unique and exclusive opportunity for union members made possible through a partnership between Cy-Fair AFT, Texas AFT, and iTeach. This initial cohort has 10 participants, all at different points in their careers in public schools.

Our aspiring teachers are employed in various districts in different positions, including paraprofessionals, long-term substitutes, custodians, and office clerks. The Texas AFT Bridges Institute for Professional Development will support them throughout the program, and we look forward to highlighting their important stories and journey over the next year. Undoubtedly the experience in Cy-Fair will shape our exploration of a similar program statewide.