Strong teaching does not happen by chance; it is built through intentional coaching, structured development, and a deep commitment to growing talent from within.
For more than 20 years, Teaching Excellence (TE), YES Prep’s alternative teacher certification program, has accelerated teacher effectiveness by providing first-year educators with coaching, mentorship, and a clear certification pathway.
This year, we are proud to launch a new blog series highlighting members of our 2026 Teaching Excellence cohort. Throughout the series, we will feature the educators who are building their practice through TE and making an immediate impact in classrooms across our district.
We begin with two educators whose reflections capture what makes Teaching Excellence so impactful: structure, community, and real-time growth.
Oscar Jaimes-North Central Elementary
For Oscar Jaimes, Teaching Excellence provided clarity and confidence during one of the most challenging transitions in education — the first year in the classroom.
“Teaching Excellence helped bridge theory and practice, especially in classroom management, lesson planning, and student engagement,” he shared. “The mentorship and ongoing feedback gave me confidence and practical tools to navigate real classroom challenges.”
Through coaching sessions and debriefs, Oscar discovered just how much his instructional practice could evolve. “I have learned a wide variety of practical strategies that I can immediately implement,” he explained. “It has helped me become more intentional in my planning and more responsive to my students’ needs.”
That intentional growth translated into a major milestone. Oscar became the first bilingual teacher in this year’s cohort to earn his Initial Teaching Certificate — a process that required preparing for and passing four rigorous certification exams.
For him, the depth of support made that achievement possible. “I expected some guidance,” he admitted, “but TE offers ongoing mentorship, collaborative coaching, and a community of peers that truly support your growth. It’s both structured and personalized.”
“It’s more than a program,” he said. “It’s a foundation for growth. Being part of TE has made me feel supported, capable, and inspired to make a real difference in my students’ lives.”
Shellie Dodson-Hobby Secondary
For Shellie Dodson, the most meaningful part of Teaching Excellence has been knowing she doesn’t have to navigate her first year alone.
“Teaching Excellence has supported me by offering multiple touchpoints with my instructional coach,” she shared. “She shares resources, offers suggestions about lesson plans and teaching strategies, helps me with classroom management, and provides a safe space to bring questions and concerns.”
That consistent, real-time support has strengthened her daily practice. “Being able to be in the classroom full time and experience on-the-ground coaching has grown me in my practice and in the way I respond to the roles and responsibilities of the job,” she explained.
Shellie says she has grown most in time management and classroom management, skills that sharpen with both experience and reflection. Just as impactful has been the community built through the program. “Building relationships and knowing that I am not alone in first-year teacher struggles has been beneficial and encouraging.”
When asked what she would tell a new teacher considering YES Prep, she said, “It’s a worthwhile experience and a great way to fast-track your teaching career if you’re looking to get certified or move into the teaching field.”
Growing Stronger, Together
Teaching Excellence ensures that first-year teachers are not navigating the classroom alone. Through structured induction, ongoing coaching, and aligned professional development, TE accelerates growth, benefiting not only educators, but the students and families they serve.
Stay tuned as we continue highlighting members of this year’s Teaching Excellence cohort and celebrating the educators who are investing in their craft and in the futures of Houston students.