Louisiana State University highlighted on May 1 the experiences of Kaitlyn LaCoste, an elementary education major and ambassador in the College of Human Sciences & Education, as she participates in the Tiger Teacher Corps program. The initiative is designed to provide aspiring teachers with hands-on classroom experience, mentorship, and professional development.
The Tiger Teacher Corps aims to address Louisiana’s need for well-prepared educators by equipping students with practical skills and real-world insights that go beyond traditional coursework. LaCoste said her upbringing surrounded by educators influenced her decision to pursue teaching. “Being around that environment shaped me in so many ways and gave me a deep appreciation for teaching from an early age,” she said.
LaCoste explained that the program allows participants to step into classrooms early in their training, which helps them understand challenges such as integrating technology effectively into lessons. She said, “College coursework gives you theory and practice exercises, but being in the classroom this year through the Tiger Teacher Corps has shown me realities that you just can’t learn from textbooks alone.”
She also described how mentorship within the program builds confidence and fosters a supportive community among future teachers. “Through the program, I’ve leaned on my peers for guidance on lesson planning… This support has helped me feel more confident,” LaCoste said.
According to LaCoste, programs like Tiger Teacher Corps are important because they help create a pipeline of teachers who are ready to make a difference from day one. She emphasized that while financial rewards may be limited, making a positive impact on students’ lives is far more meaningful: “We might not always get financial rewards, but the opportunity to positively influence students each day is far more meaningful.”
LaCoste concluded by highlighting the personal connections fostered through LSU’s School of Education faculty: “Our teachers aren’t just instructors; they’re mentors who genuinely want us to succeed… Moments like that remind me that mentorship and personal connection are at the heart of teaching.”