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MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) -Midland ISD is now offering real-world training in high school for students who want to become a teacher.

About eighty-five students are enrolled in the program.

Upper-level students can get hands-on experience by visiting the elementary schools three days a week to observe and assist in classrooms as well as teach group lessons.

“Well, it is definitely different from being an actual student and just being able to watch and you learn so much and it is just a great learning environment.” said Legacy High school student Paige Fowler.

The classroom time is important for the students to develop their skills as educators.

Students are actively teaching lessons and learning how to manage a classroom.

“I have bonded so much with these kids, and I learned from them and the students have learned from me. Through this experience, I have found myself and my passion.” said Legacy High school student Hannah Herman.

Teacher shortages have been a problem across the nation.

The education and training program will help fulfill the need to have more teachers in the Permian basin.

“We do need teachers; we need great teachers. That’s why this program called “grow your own” is where we are concentrating on students that have grown up here or that lived in midland will have an opportunity to come back and teach within the community they are from.” said Legacy High School student Sue Silhanek.

Students can also try to do different professions in the program.

“As a senior, students are eligible to advance out of the elementary school level and try middle school or high school. coaching, fine arts, depending on what their interest level is.” said Sue Silhanek.

By completing the program, students can earn an educational aide certification allowing them to work as teacher aides after high school.