In celebration of Black History Month, we are acknowledging and uplifting Black teacher residents who are part of NCTR Network teacher residency programs, eager to begin teaching a class of students as a teacher of record and make a difference in their communities.
Meet Jasma Williams, Chicago Teacher Residency Program
Why did you decide to take part in the teacher residency program?
Being a paraprofessional for six years and building connections with my students through their education led me to the decision to participate in the teacher residency program.
How has being part of the program contributed to your life?
This program has made a positive impact on my life by helping me maintain my income while I am student teaching and ensuring that I have a teaching job once I graduate.
What does being a Black teacher mean to you?
Black teachers are culturally sensitive and activists for educational justice and equality. As a Black teacher, I want to be a role model for my daughter and an example for other Black children to see that we are not a statistic and that we can break generational cycles.
How do you think schools and districts can best support you as a Black teacher?
CPS’s teacher residency program allows me to continue my professional development. It gives me a greater sense of feeling grounded to learn from my professors who teach within CPS.
What are you looking forward to most upon completion?
Upon completion of this program, I am looking forward to having my classroom as a special education teacher.
Posted February 28, 2023