Presidential AI Challenge (K–12)
The Presidential AI Challenge invites K–12 students and educators to design AI-powered solutions for real-world problems. Participants can earn a Presidential Certificate of Participation, with top teams advancing for awards—including up to $10,000 and a White House visit. Submissions are due January 20, 2026, and include a short narrative, media link, and originality certification. Complete our interest form to let us know if you’d like to participate or receive support.
UTeach Induction
Mission
Provide personalized support and resources to UTeach graduates for the first three years in the field.
Goals
- Increase retention of UTeach graduates in the classroom.
- Increase student achievement in new teachers’ classrooms.
- Move new teachers along a continuum from novice to expert teachers
Support
UTeach Austin provides individualized induction support with:
- One-on-one individualized support in the classroom
- Targeted professional development workshops (specific to needs of STEM teachers)
- Leadership development
Yun Shares Classroom Organization Tips
Induction Newsletters
The New Teacher Toolkit offers practical resources, strategies, and reminders to help new teachers build confidence and support seasoned educators in starting the year strong.
Phases of First Year Teachers
The Disillusionment Phase
At this point, the accumulated stress of the first-year teacher, coupled with months of excessive time allotted to teaching, often brings complaints from family members and friends. This is a very difficult and challenging phase for new entries into the profession. They express self-doubt, have lower self-esteem and question their professional commitment. In fact, getting through this phase may be the toughest challenge they face as a new teacher.
Meet Jaclyn Martinez, an induction teacher at Travis Early College High School (Austin ISD)
Biology and IPC
What’s one self-care practice that helps you recharge outside of the classroom? — Going on long walks and journaling about the day!
Share a highlight from your teaching journey that keeps you motivated. -- Something that keeps me motivated is seeing students that are 'at risk' or struggle with school find something that they are passionate about. It reminds me why I chose to be a teacher!
Favorite Quote:
"The word 'yet' is so powerful. The word ‘yet’ means you’re not there right now, but you’re on your way — it’s a reminder that you can always keep getting better."
Meet the UTeach Induction Fellows
The UTeach Induction Fellowship Program is a prestigious initiative designed to recognize and support distinguished alumni who are currently teaching in their first five years.
Name: Marianne Villanueva
School: Harwood Junior High, 8th Grade Science Teacher
ISD: Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
Self-Care: One self-care practice that helps me recharge is to go outside during my conference! Grab a conference buddy and take a walk or eat a snack in the fresh air!
Highlight: During my first year, a student wrote “I’m going to take my talents to UT! Go Longhorns” on my whiteboard. He is currently in the top 100 top college track and field prospects and still tells me he is going to UT one day.
“Education is one thing no one can take away from you” - Elin Nordegren
Alumni News
Alumni Resources
Professional Development Offerings
USEA Connect
Teaching Tip!
Try the “One Thing” Reflection
When everything feels heavy, simplify. At the end of each day (or week), jot down one thing that went well and one thing you’d like to tweak next time. This quick reflection takes less than five minutes but builds powerful momentum over time. It helps shift your focus from feeling overwhelmed to recognizing progress, reminding you that teaching is shaped by small, purposeful changes over time.
UTeach Distinguished Alumni
Brianna Rapini - Spring 2005
Chris Mihealsick - Spring 2002
Daniel Brown - Spring 2010
Dr. Ariel Taylor - Spring 2011
Dr. Katey Arrington- Spring 2001
Dr. Steven Stapleton - Spring 2009
Elizabeth Goldberg - Fall 2008
Jason Ermer - Fall 2001
Lauren Benoit - Spring 2010
Mario Acosta - Spring 2003
Shana King - Fall 2011
William Chan - Spring 2008
Celebrate the dedication and impact of our alumni who have gone on to inspire as educators.. Visit our Awards Wall of Fame to see the exceptional individuals who continue to inspire.
Induction & Alumni Support Team
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Kelli Allen
Associate Professor of Practice
Professional Development Coordinator
Induction Coordinator
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Peggy Pitts
Senior Administrative Program Coordinator
Please let us know where you are working for the 2025 - 2026 school year!