Justin Siebert never imagined that one day he would be coaching teachers who were once his own students. But after 12 years in Memphis, Justin’s story is one of full-circle moments, professional growth, and a deep appreciation for the impact of Memphis Teacher Residency.

Jessica Williams, an 8th-grade math teacher and instructional coach at Collierville Middle School, has spent the past decade empowering students and building meaningful relationships in her classroom. Twice honored as Teacher of the Year, she credits the recognition with inspiring her to pursue leadership roles, including a second master’s degree in educational leadership. Deeply connected to Memphis and guided by her faith, Jessica celebrates the values instilled by MTR, which continue to shape her impactful career.

Nate joined MTR in 2013 and has spent over a decade teaching and coaching. He views his success as a collective effort, crediting his students' hard work and fellow teachers' influence. For Nate, education is about paying it forward and using his platform to advocate for others, with the ultimate reward being the growth and achievements of his students.

Alexia’s journey from Texas to Memphis is one of faith, empowerment, and servant leadership. With a passion for uplifting students and the cleft community through her nonprofit, Beauty for Ashes, Alexia is deeply rooted in the city’s spirit of excellence. Whether mentoring through her nonprofit or leading in education, she credits MTR’s influence for shaping her vision to serve Memphis with heart and purpose.

Taylor’s life changed with a simple "yes" to an unexpected opportunity. What began as a courtesy meeting turned into a journey through MTR, where he found not only a career but lifelong friends, a deep community, and even the love of his life. In his time in Memphis, Taylor has learned and that saying yes can lead to experiences beyond your imagination.

Joshua and his wife Ava moved to Memphis in June 2016, where he found a community deeply aligned with his values. Over four years of teaching at Frayser Achievement School District, Joshua learned to appreciate the authenticity of his students, who inspired his commitment to “radical hospitality”. Now the Executive Director of Foster Village Memphis, Joshua applies these lessons to support foster, adoptive, and kinship families, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection and community.

Jordaan McCray, a fifth-grade teacher, reflects on her unexpected journey from being a medicine graduate to a passionate educator. Guided by her mentor and driven by the mission of MTR, Jordaan sees the challenges and rewards of teaching as a beautiful path toward growth in her life. Her story highlights resilience of Memphis and how she grew to re-fall in love with her home city.

From MTR Camp, to interning with MTR, and now teaching, Maya built a legacy within MTR and the city of Memphis. It felt like a journey full of growth for both her and her students. Memphis holds a special place in her heart, though she moved back to Maryland to be closer to family. Through it all, Maya found her voice and passion for equitable education, crediting MTR for cheering her on every step of the way.

Rebekah met some of her dearest friends through teaching with MTR - she even met her now husband at her school! Get to know Rebekah and how the relationships she formed through MTR have changed her life.

Dom found herself on an unexpected journey shaped by trusting the Lord and her commitment to authenticity. As she reflects on her time with Memphis Teacher Residency (MTR), Dom shares about her resilience and spiritual growth.

Stu Rozendal moved to Memphis in 2021 to join MTR — without even having visited!

He is driven by curiosity and excellence, both traits that MTR’s staff has fostered in him, specifically Dr. Brandi Cox. With support from mentors like her, Stu aims to grow as an educator to benefit both himself and his students. Not for his gain, but to demonstrate Christian love expressed in equal education.

The stories span 15 years of impact since MTR was founded in 2009. Find a story you’d like to read and sign up for our Newsletter to receive these in your inbox every few weeks!

In a span of just two years in Memphis, Christian's life has been a testament to the profound impact of Memphis Teacher Residency. From overcoming challenges to finding a supportive community, Christian's journey reflects the blessings that MTR has brought into her life, and how she brings those to her students.

Here in Memphis, Lucero embarked on a mission that intertwined her personal history with her professional aspirations. Her journey to teaching began in childhood, with a yearning for representation, for a role model she didn't have.

…As we practice meditation, we come to know the Lord is near, He is able, and He is good….

…I’m not here to be Jesus for someone else. I’m here to literally serve Jesus. My students and their families are the Christ figures. I am his servant here to serve Jesus. Christ in me sees Christ in them, and we serve one another…

In Biblical times, people were compelled to come each day to a well, that critical source of life-giving water. Now, compulsory education requires students to also come to schools each day. And four years in the classroom has shown me that today’s schools can be a similar source of life, that is the dignity and equal opportunity rendered by an excellent education.

As image-bearers, we are already accepted by Him. This gives us the assignment to love ourselves and the responsibility to love all people. That’s our job.