MISD leadership program helps boost student outcomes

February 4, 2025 — Midland ISD’s Opportunity Culture initiative allows top teachers to serve as Multi-Classroom Leaders (MCLs) which has led to student success in the classroom. The program provides stipends for highly-effective teachers to serve as coaches and mentors for other teachers, and train them in proven instructional techniques.

Two-thirds of campuses that have implemented the program saw improved STAAR scores from 2023 to 2024. The biggest campuses to see growth were at South Elementary and Pease Communications and Technology Academy, which improved scores by 25 and 22 points, respectively.

One MCL making a significant difference is Long Elementary School teacher Emily Terry (pictured). With 25 years of teaching experience across multiple grade levels, Mrs. Terry’s passion for education and innovative teaching strategies have inspired students and fellow educators.

Mrs. Terry and other MCLs have played a pivotal role in training teachers on research-proven instructional practices. She fosters collaboration and professional growth among her peers, and has observed improvements in teaching strategies and student performance.

“Helping students surpass their goals and achieve beyond their expectations has been the driving force behind my career,” said Mrs. Terry. “Seeing both teachers and students grow affirms my belief that I am exactly where I belong.”

Through Opportunity Culture, MISD has strategically placed MCLs like Mrs. Terry on 27 campuses, ensuring that more students benefit from high-quality instruction. MCLs receive additional compensation—up to $17,000 annually—for their leadership, making this model both an investment in educators and a driver of student achievement.

MISD was also one of the first two districts in Texas to implement a Teacher Residency Model within Opportunity Culture. This Grow Your Own initiative provides University of Texas Permian Basin seniors in the Teacher Certification program with a year-long, paid residency alongside MCLs, ensuring a pipeline of highly trained educators ready to enter the classroom.

As a result of these efforts, school district leaders from across the region recently visited MISD to observe Opportunity Culture in action. Campus tours and classroom observations at South Elementary, Rusk Elementary, and Alamo Junior High showcased the program’s effectiveness, with discussions on MCL selection, instructional coaching, and strategic staffing.

By investing in Opportunity Culture, MISD is promoting innovative education, fostering excellence among teachers, and ensuring that students receive the best possible learning experience.

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Media Contact:

Sam Eaton

Communications Specialist

432-240-1043 | [email protected]