Megan Whites is setting up her classroom for the first time. 

“A lot of my scholars don’t come in on the first day with the supplies they need. So, I’m definitely going to stack up on those supplies.” 

One of Austin ISD’s newest 4th grade teachers, Megan hit the aisles of HEB — armed with a $100 gift card — to make sure every student would have what they need to succeed.

“We call our students scholars. It sets up a positive mind set for lifelong learning.”

Megan is one of the first graduates of the Tech Teach Across Texas program at Austin Community College (ACC). The program launched at ACC in fall 2018. It provides ACC students a fast track to a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University while earning state teacher certification. 

As a participant, Megan had a full year of hands-on experience and frequent certification exam practice. 

“This program is special because it really tests your abilities. It puts you in the position of a teacher right away and exposes you to what the real meat of teaching is. What it puts on your plate is adequate to what you’re going to see, feel, and experience when you’re a true teacher. I would not be this prepared for my first year teaching without it.”

For more information about TechTeach Across Texas at ACC, visit austincc.edu/techteach.