TACA Names TAMIU ACP Student Outstanding Intern of Year

The Texas Alternative Certification Association (TACA) announced Ronnie Castro, Texas A&M International University College of Education Alternative Certification Program student, has been named 2008 TACA Intern of the Year: 8–12.

Castro's entry was submitted among others from throughout the state's
alternative certification programs. He was selected on his teaching
performance in the classroom, contributions and participation in school or districts committees, positive working relationships with parents, peers and the community, unique contributions to the school and leadership
responsibilities.

This is his second year as a teacher at United Independent School District’s Lyndon B. Johnson High School. He teaches senior English.

“The committee also viewed a 10-minute video of him teaching in the classroom and they also judged letters of recommendations from key people that could attest to his teaching performance in the classroom,” explained Elizabeth A. Greninger, director, TAMIU alternative certification program.

“I am optimistic about my future as a professional public school educator and I plan to strive harder in the next few years to become a better teacher than I am today. It has been a rewarding experience each semester to work with young and energetic high school students and turn them on to the real world possibilities that a higher education will afford them,” said Castro.

“He is admired and respected by his peers, administrators and TAMIU ACP staff. We are proud of him!” said Greninger.

According to the TACA, this award has special significance because it is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency and professionalism in their field who are held in high esteem by their peers and students.

TACA will present Castro with a plaque and a monetary gift at its 2008 Consortium of State Organizations for Texas Teacher Education Conference.

The TAMIU College of Education offers the Alternative Teacher Certification Program for degreed students considering teaching as a profession.

For more information, please contact Greninger at egreninger@tamiu.edu or 326.2687 or visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 427C, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu