The future of education in the Permian Basin is being shaped by The University of Texas Permian Basin students preparing to become the next generation of teachers.
Through hands-on classroom experience, dedicated faculty support, and a passion for serving others, these Falcons are building the skills and confidence to make a lasting impact on students and communities across the region.
Now, even more aspiring educators have the opportunity to pursue that calling thanks to investments from Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP) and the Scharbauer Foundation. PSP's investment will provide full scholarships and comprehensive academic support to up to 400 participants across 18 counties in the Texas Permian Basin, helping school districts meet new state certification requirements while strengthening the region's educator workforce. The Scharbauer Foundation's funding will provide scholarships for Midland ISD employees pursuing teacher certification at UTPB, tuition for UTPB students accepted into the Midland ISD Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, and paid clinical placements for UTPB Behavioral Health students completing required hours at the new Behavioral Health Hospital and other partnering Midland organizations.
Meet a few of the future educators whose journeys are just beginning.
Madelyn Clark
"Every student deserves to feel loved, supported and believed in. I am honored to be that person for my students, and I look forward to the impact I will make in the years ahead," said Madelyn Clark, a 2026 graduate of the College of Education.
Madelyn has always felt called to teaching and helping the next generation succeed. Through UTPB's Teacher Residency Program, she gained hands-on classroom experience, strengthened her instructional skills and learned alongside an experienced mentor teacher.
"I strengthened my skills in teaching phonics, grammar, and writing, and together we helped all 40 of our students become readers," Madelyn said. "More than anything, I am thankful for the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of my students while gaining valuable experience for my future career."
Fernanda Malagon
For Fernanda Malagon, teaching is about inspiring curiosity and building confidence in her students.
"The College of Education provided me with supportive professors, meaningful learning opportunities, and hands-on experiences that helped me grow both personally and professionally," Fernanda said. "Throughout my time at UTPB, I gained the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to become an effective educator."
Fernanda says her residency experience was one of the most valuable parts of her preparation. It allowed her to apply what she learned in the classroom, develop effective teaching strategies, and gain confidence in her abilities as an educator.
"The experience confirmed that teaching is the career I am passionate about pursuing," Fernanda said.
Brandon Rolston
Brandon Rolston graduated from UTPB in 2026 and is ready to step into his own special education classroom.
"As a special education teacher, I get to celebrate some of the biggest and smallest victories with my students, and those moments are what make this job so rewarding," Brandon said. "Whether it's learning a new skill, gaining confidence or reaching a goal they have worked hard for, being a part of that journey is something I never take for granted."
Brandon credits UTPB's residency program, coursework, and dedicated faculty members with preparing him for the next step in his career.
Vivian Galindo
For Vivian Galindo, becoming a teacher has always been about making a difference. She chose UTPB's Teacher Residency Program to gain the experience and confidence needed to lead her own classroom while learning alongside experienced educators.
"The Teacher Residency Program has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life," Vivian said. "It has not only prepared me to become a teacher, but it has also helped me grow as a person." She credits the guidance of her site coordinator, Marsha Bridges, and mentor teacher, Mr. Navarrete, with helping her develop as an educator.
A Spring 2026 UTPB graduate, Vivian is now ready to begin her teaching career. She hopes to create a classroom where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed, carrying forward the lessons she learned as a Falcon.
