Victoria ISD proudly celebrates the launch of its third cohort in the VISD BRIDGE Program. This empowering initiative opens doors for aspiring educators to chase their dreams of becoming exceptional teachers.
Since its inception in March 2023, the VISD Academy to Certify Teachers has demonstrated the district’s commitment to cultivating a highly effective workforce through intentional growth and development. Built on the three pillars of CONNECT, BRIDGE and UNITE, this initiative creates a strong pipeline of teachers who will enrich our community.
The BRIDGE program is designed for paraprofessionals and substitutes within VISD, providing a pathway for professional and personal growth. With the support of their school administrators, BRIDGE participants embark on a transformative journey that opens new doors.
For these individuals, the BRIDGE program is not just a step forward; it is an incredible opportunity for growth. The rigorous curriculum starts with the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program, eight courses from Teachworthy: Elevate for college credit, and one VISD Course for 3 hrs college credit, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive as teachers in their first year in the classroom.
Their journey goes beyond this program. After completing training, BRIDGE participants are excited to pursue their teaching degrees. With VISD’s support, they are driven by a shared vision of excellence and a thirst for knowledge.
BRIDGE Cohort 1
During the 2023-24 school year, 47 participants completed Year 1 of the program, 45 of whom served as classroom instructors. Participants completed five VISD courses for 15 hours of college credit with Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) and earned an additional 15 hours of college credit. Leslie Ortiz, a STEM Middle School instructor, earned her teaching degree from Grand Canyon University and transitioned to the UNITE Program for alternative certification. Amy Fulkerson from Chandler Elementary and Erica Pierce from Mission Valley Elementary graduated from IWU and have transitioned to the UNITE Program.
In the 2024-25 school year, 41 Cohort 1 participants will continue as classroom instructors, completing VISD Courses 106-110 for an additional 13 hours of college credit. Andrea Aguilar from Patti Welder Middle School, Victoria Thomas and Monica Cano from Smith STEM Elementary, and Laura Correa Villeda from Crain Elementary graduated from IWU and have transitioned to the UNITE Program. Additionally, six more will be graduating from IWU before the start of the 2025-26 school year.
BRIDGE Cohort 2
In 2024-25, 27 new participants will begin Year 1 of the BRIDGE Program, having already completed VISD Course 101 during the summer and all serve as classroom instructors in the district. These educators will work towards successfully completing the first five VISD courses for a total of 15 hours of college credit added towards their teaching degree if they attend IWU. BRIDGE participants are currently enrolled in IWU, University of Houston-Victoria (UHV), and Victoria College transitioning into UHV.
BRIDGE Cohort 3
In 2025-26, 20 new participants will begin Year 1 of the BRIDGE Program, having already completed VISD Course 101 for college credit, Teachworthy: Elevate Modules for college credit, and Capturing Kids’ Hearts before starting their first year as a classroom instructor. Throughout the year, these educators will complete four additional VISD courses for a total of 12 hours of college credit added towards their teaching degree. BRIDGE participants are currently enrolling at IWU.
VISD's BRIDGE Program continues to grow, offering participants comprehensive training through courses designed by the district’s BRIDGE Coordinator and Curriculum, Instruction, and Accountability Department. This unique collaboration prepares educators with the skills needed to make an immediate impact in the classroom while advancing their careers.