West Oso ISD approves TAMU Corpus Christi MOU for teacher residency and 'grow your own' supports

The West Oso ISD Board unanimously approved an agreement May 20 with Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi to expand teacher‑pipeline efforts through two programs: a paid residency for senior‑year trainees and a 'grow your own' tuition support program for juniors.

Superintendent Miss Moore said residency participants function as full‑year, paid residents (similar to a full‑year internship) and that state rules now expect higher stipends. Under the MOU the residency model provides $20,000 per resident (the TEA allotment plus a system match in other districts, though West Oso said current grant funding covers its match this year). Host or mentor teachers receive a $2,000 stipend. The newly framed 'grow your own' program would support juniors in college with roughly $4,000 for tuition or related costs; candidates must already be employed by the district in roles with instructional responsibilities (for example, paraprofessionals or tutors).

Board members asked whether residents must remain with West Oso after certification. Staff said the TEA success‑funding mechanics require a period of teaching in a Texas public school for districts to receive some follow‑on funds; however, program rules do not strictly bind participants to remain at West Oso for multiple years when the program is grant funded. Trustees also clarified that the current strategic staffing grant fully funds four residency slots this year; any additional residents would require general‑fund matches.

A motion to approve the MOU with TAMU‑CC for the PREP residency and grow‑your‑own program passed on roll call, recorded as 7–0.