Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD (PBTISD) has officially launched its new Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP), designed to grow the next generation of educators from within the Pecos community. With the motto “Grow here. Teach here. Stay here.” the program provides aspiring teachers the opportunity to begin their careers while earning their college degree.
Through partnerships with Western Governors University (WGU) and edwell, TAP allows participants to work full-time as teacher apprentices in PBTISD classrooms while completing their degree and certification requirements. The model combines competency-based coursework with real-world experience, creating a pathway that removes financial barriers and accelerates learning for those pursuing a career in education.
“This program is about building our own pipeline of teachers right here in Pecos,” said Superintendent Brent Jaco. “We know that students benefit most when their teachers are rooted in the community. TAP not only helps us recruit talented individuals but ensures they are supported every step of the way so they can thrive as educators in PBTISD.”
Unlike traditional programs, WGU’s competency-based model allows apprentices to move at their own pace, testing out of material they already know and focusing on areas where they need a deeper understanding. At the same time, edwell provides specialized micro-learning sessions that align with day-to-day teaching experiences, ensuring coursework is timely, practical, and directly connected to classroom practice.
Assistant Superintendent of Human Capital Dr. Dimitri Garcia emphasized the unique advantage of the program. “Many individuals who want to become teachers face two major hurdles: time and cost,” Garcia said. “TAP addresses both by allowing apprentices to earn a salary with full benefits while completing their degree. They gain real classroom experience with mentorship, all while avoiding the student debt that too often holds future teachers back. It’s a game-changer for PBTISD and for the teaching profession.”
The first cohort of the Teacher Apprenticeship Program includes 11 individuals already employed by PBTISD and one joining the district this fall: Joanna Garcia, Delfa Guerra, Amanda Maldonado, Elyzabeth Orona, Kendra Rayos, Kacy Reynolds, Noemi Salgado, Melissa Barragan, Vanessa Hernandez, Asusena Montemayor, Greg Trueblood, and Desiree Hinojos.. Each member of Cohort 1 will begin the program this fall, gaining immediate classroom experience while progressing through their academic and certification requirements.
The launch of TAP comes as PBTISD continues to prioritize staff recruitment and retention as a cornerstone of its 2022–2027 Strategic Plan. By eliminating barriers for those pursuing teaching careers, the district is making a direct investment in its future workforce.
“Our vision is clear,” Jaco said. “We want people to grow here as students, become inspired to teach here, and stay here to serve the next generation. TAP is the bridge that makes that possible.”
Applications for the Teacher Apprenticeship Program are accepted annually. Interested candidates can learn more by contacting Dr. Dimitri Garcia at dgarcia@pbtisd.esc18.net