The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has awarded nearly $3 million in grants to nine public and private universities to support the next generation of teachers through the Mississippi Teacher Residency (MTR) program.
The $2,968,855 in funding will help up to 236 individuals earn licensure in elementary or special education. The grants will cover tuition, testing fees, books, and other program costs, with a focus on preparing educators to serve in Mississippi’s geographical critical shortage areas.
“This investment reflects the state’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable teacher pipeline,” said MDE officials. “By supporting aspiring educators through training and mentorship, we’re helping ensure every student has access to a qualified teacher.”
The following institutions received grant awards based on their proposed budgets:
- Mississippi State University – $1,298,981
- Delta State University – $280,000
- Mississippi Valley State University – $279,000
- Jackson State University – $272,417
- University of Mississippi – $242,773
- University of Southern Mississippi – $196,000
- Mississippi University for Women – $140,000
- William Carey University – $140,000
- Mississippi College – $119,684
The MTR program offers a hands-on residency model, pairing candidates with mentor teachers while providing professional development and licensure support. Unlike previous years, applicants must now apply directly through the participating universities.
Since its launch in 2019 with support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the MTR program has grown significantly. It expanded in 2021 with federal relief funding and has now supported at least 287 graduates entering the teaching profession.
The initiative is part of Mississippi’s broader strategy to improve teacher recruitment and retention, particularly in underserved communities.
Prospective candidates can find more information and application links on the MDE’s Mississippi Teacher Residency webpage MTR webpage.