This video is available as a NAESPA membership benefit or for a limited time as a conference attendee.
|
57 :
08
Effective Instruction Amidst the Teacher Shortage
Manor ISD was affected by the teacher shortage, as are so many schools around the country. When they couldn’t find enough teachers locally, their classrooms were understaffed and student outcomes were affected. Pandemic learning loss combined with teacher vacancies and looming state testing looked grim. Manor administrators decided to get creative to help their students succeed. Students first always. They decided to partner with Proximity Learning to livestream synchronous teachers into their classrooms. Students received effective instruction and access to the certified teachers they deserved while being supported by an in-classroom facilitator. Learn more about their success story in this cutting-edge panel of thought leaders.
This talk was presented at:
2025 National ESEA Conference
February 2025
in
Austin, TX
For more information:
proxlearn.com
Speakers
Dr. Jessika Hearne
Dr. Jessika Hearne brings a deep commitment to high student achievement and a passion for fostering exceptional educational experiences. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University, where she was the Head Feature Twirler in the “Ocean of Soul” Marching Band, a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Lamar University, and a Doctoral Degree in Education Administration from the University of Houston. Dr. Hearne's career in education spans roles as a Teacher, Team Lead, Department Head, and Principal across both primary and secondary levels. One of her most cherished memories is witnessing her senior students confidently walk across the graduation stage, a testament to their growth and her dedication. Her experience as a 9th-12th grade Mathematics Teacher, where she wore many hats—from mentor to seamstress—highlighted her unwavering commitment to student success and self-belief. At Manor Senior High School, Dr. Hearne is enthusiastic about collaborating with staff and stakeholders to refine existing systems and develop new strategies to ensure that all students graduate College, Career, or Military Ready.
Dr. Robert Sormani
Dr. Robert Sormani began his education career in 1999 as a teacher at J. Frank Dobie Middle School in Austin ISD. Over the years, he transitioned to roles including assistant principal in Austin ISD and Round Rock ISD, and principal at Chisholm Trail Middle School in Round Rock ISD, where he served for nearly nine years. He then became Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Manor ISD, progressing to Superintendent in 2023 after serving as Associate Superintendent for Instruction and Innovation at Hutto ISD. Dr. Sormani holds three degrees from the University of Texas at Austin: a Doctorate in Educational Administration (2016), a Master's in Educational Administration (2006), and a Bachelor's in English with a minor in History (1997). He is certified to teach Secondary History and ELA, and holds a Superintendency Certificate. Married to Diana for almost 20 years, they have three children and share a passion for running, travel, and adventure. Originally from Houston, Dr. Sormani is thrilled to live near Diana's parents in Manor, while remaining close to his family in Houston.
Dr. Tamey Williams-Hill
Dr. Williams-Hill brings over 20 years of diverse education experience, spanning rural, suburban, and urban districts, where she has served as an English teacher, campus administrator, central office administrator, and interim superintendent. Currently, she serves as Deputy Superintendent for a school district, focusing on equity in educational leadership. She is a guest speaker at local universities on human resources, teacher rights, responsibilities, and doctoral research methodologies. Dr. Williams-Hill has presented at local, state, national, and international education conferences. She sits on the Executive Board of TASPA and serves as a board member of a multibillion-dollar financial institution. Committed to community service, she volunteers with groups that fund grants for teachers and scholarships for students. Dr. Williams-Hill holds a PhD in school improvement, along with Masters degrees in Education Administration and Social Work, plus Bachelor degrees from Southwest Texas State and Texas State Universities. Passionate about travel and cultural exchange, she enjoys learning from diverse perspectives worldwide.
Leticia Jones
Mrs. Leticia Jones earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Tarleton State University and began teaching in 2008, primarily instructing 4th graders for six years. In 2013, she received her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Concordia University and transitioned to an Instructional Coach role for two years. In 2016, she became an assistant principal at Temple ISD, serving three years before advancing to Lamar Middle School.
ESEA Network
The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (formerly the National Title I Association) is dedicated to building the capacity of education professionals to provide disadvantaged children with a high quality education. Their ESEA Network website provides a host of resources to educators at all levels.
Connect With Us
 |
 |
 |
 |
Contact Us
admin@eseanetwork.org | 800-256-6452
532 North Franklin Street | Fort Bragg, CA 95437
About Us
The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (formerly the National Title I Association) is dedicated to building the capacity of education professionals to provide disadvantaged children with a high quality education. Their ESEA Network website provides a host of resources to educators at all levels.
Connect with Us
|
|
|
|
