By Michael Kormos
In an effort to address teacher shortages and invest in local talent, Corsicana ISD has launched a new “Grow Your Own” initiative called the Tiger Teacher Pipeline, a partnership between Teachworthy, Elevate, Indiana Wesleyan University, and the district itself.
The program allows paraprofessionals with college credits to begin teaching in classrooms while simultaneously earning their degrees. Although participants cannot serve as the teacher of record, they are responsible for lesson planning, grading, and classroom instruction. Their coursework is completed through IWU, which accepts all accredited college credits and even counts professional development hours toward degree completion.
“This is a life-changing opportunity for our staff,” said Scott Doring, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Leadership. “We have paraprofessionals who’ve worked in our schools for years but couldn’t finish their degrees due to life circumstances. The Tiger Teacher Pipeline gives them a pathway to become certified teachers without leaving Corsicana.”
Currently, five individuals are participating in the pilot program. All are on track to graduate in the summer of 2026, after which they will be eligible to become full-time teachers in the district.
The program’s financial structure is designed to be cost-effective for the district and beneficial for participants.
“It’s actually a little cheaper for us,” Doring said, “and for the paraprofessionals, it’s free. They earn more than they would as a para and get their degree.”
Teachers must commit to working within the district for two years upon completion of the program.
Applications for the next cohort will open Jan. 20, 2026. A committee will select candidates based on qualifications and available openings.
“This is a win-win,” Doring said. “We’re investing in our own people, keeping talent in Corsicana, and changing lives in the process.”
Visit https://rebrand.ly/cisdttp to apply.
