OTECP Announces Residnecy Winner for December 2024

January 14, 2025 - The College of Education (COE) at the University of Memphis recognizes Mandy Austin for her mentor teacher contributions to the college’s Office of Teacher Education and Clinical Practice (OTECP). Nominations for student teacher, mentor teacher, and clinical supervisor of the month awards were not taken for the month of December, due to the nature of final exams and the holiday season. And so, Austin stands as the office's lone highlight.

“Ms. Austin has graciously hosted several of our pre-residency and field experience students,” said OTECP Director Dr. Nichelle Robinson. “I truly appreciate her mentoring so many of our students over the years at various stages in our program.”

Austin attended State Tech in Memphis from 1994-98 and bounced around a few careers before landing on education. She explains that her original path in school was architecture, and she received her associates degree to do so.

“I worked many jobs,” she said. “I got married and was helping my stepdaughter with some math she was struggling with. I saw when she finally got it and decided to go back to school to become a teacher.”

She enrolled at UofM in 2012, majoring in COE’s Teaching All Learners (TALN) program. After completing residency at Millington Elementary, she was hired by Memphis Business Academy Elementary School, where she’s been teaching the last nine years. Wanting to give back to UofM, Austin took up mentoring teaching for student teachers in the OTECP programs.

Austin said, “I remember what pre-residency and residency was like and all the amazing mentors I had while I was there. I know our students need wonderful teachers who care about them and give them the best they have.  I think it is important to make sure the upcoming teachers have this quality and am eager to help them to the best of my ability.”

Six students were assigned to Austin last year, including two Grow Your Own (GYO) students, adults currently working in school systems as teaching assistants who aspire to be a teacher. Austin’s dedication to mentoring the next generation of teachers reflects her commitment to the profession and the community she serves. By sharing her experiences and passion for teaching, she not only equips her mentees with the skills and confidence they need but also inspires them to carry forward the same level of care and excellence.

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