Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University (APSU) recently celebrated the future of education in Tennessee. They held their annual Grow Your Own Teacher Residency signing event on July 21-22, 2025. This event took place in the Morgan University Center Ballroom and welcomed 48 new teacher residents from various rural counties, including Cheatham, Hickman, and Robertson Counties, along with Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools.
These aspiring teachers are beginning their journey to earn full-time pay while attaining their degrees at no cost. They will work as educational assistants for three years while pursuing their bachelor’s degrees through APSU’s accelerated program.
A Growing Initiative
The Grow Your Own initiative is now in its seventh year and has seen substantial growth. This program is notable for being the first federally registered teacher apprenticeship recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. Currently, over 180 participants from eight school districts are enrolled.
During the signing event, participants signed contracts with their respective school districts. This marked their commitment to serve as educational assistants while they complete their studies.
Dr. John R. McConnell III, interim dean of the Eriksson College of Education, noted, “Great things don’t happen by accident—they require strong leadership and partnerships.” The success of this program is attributed to the collaboration between schools, community colleges, and APSU.
Bridging the Gap in Education
The structure of this program enables students to earn while learning. Federal and state funding covers their tuition costs, allowing them to work full-time in their school districts. In addition to their teaching duties, they attend classes in the evening or online.
Telaina Wrigley, associate dean for Nashville State Community College, expressed excitement about the new cohort of students who will shape the future of their communities.
School districts offer extensive support to these residents, including mentorship and study resources. Dr. Schanda Doughty, chief academic officer for Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools, pointed out the pressing need for teachers, especially given the 40,000 students they serve.
Finding Inspiration in Family
This year’s cohort features students like EmMarie Tisdale, inspired by her mother, Stacy Tisdale, a teacher for the past eight years. EmMarie’s entry into teaching reflects a family tradition, showing how mentorship can inspire the next generation.
Stacy described her role as a mentor to the new teacher residents as an opportunity to give back after receiving support in her own journey.
District Insights
Wendy Cox from Cheatham County School District emphasized the need for such initiatives today. She recalled when teaching positions were highly sought after, contrasting it with the current decline in the teaching workforce. The partnerships built through this program have been integral to addressing this issue.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, organizers plan to expand the Grow Your Own initiative to more counties, emphasizing a need for qualified educators who understand their communities’ unique challenges.
Amber Button, residency coordinator at APSU, articulated that the goal is not just to fill vacancies but to create a sustainable pipeline of passionate teachers who can engage with and uplift their communities.
For more information, you can visit the official APSU Grow Your Own website.
Educational Impact
Austin Peay’s Eriksson College of Education aims to develop effective teachers and leaders for the modern classroom. This program is part of a broader initiative accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
With the looming teacher shortages nationwide, programs like this are increasingly vital for nurturing the future of education.
The Grow Your Own Teacher Residency is not just about education— it’s about building community and fostering future leaders who will make lasting impacts.
For more details, visit the APSU education program page.
