Submitted by Pamela Tennell
TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida A&M University Developmental Research School (FAMU DRS), the K-12 school district established by Florida A&M University, is hosting a teacher recruitment fair on Saturday, April 23. The event will be held in person from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in DRS’ gymnasium. If you are unable to attend in person, please forward information to Ms. Zellee Barnes, zellee.barnes@famu.edu or (850) 412-5889.
The district is recruiting teachers who possess a valid teaching certificate or those who are eligible to obtain a certification to provide instruction for its students. Administrators are seeking educators in all subjects for all levels and are focusing on obtaining subject matter experts in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-related curricula.
“FAMU DRS is a unique learning environment,” said Zellee Barnes, Curriculum Administrator. “Our students yearn for academic challenges, and we are hopeful we can attract the talent and expertise readily available in our communities who will not only educate but also nurture our learners.”
In addition to its small class sizes, FAMU DRS educators have opportunities not typically available in other school districts, such as concerted planning processes and opportunities to continue their academic pursuits at FAMU, recently named the top-ranked public Historic Black College or University (HBCU) in the country.
“We employ a collaborative approach with our teachers and work as a team to provide ongoing professional development, academic training and support,” said Micheal Johnson, superintendent. “We understand education trends and best practices are constantly evolving and we use proactive methods to ensure our teachers have tangible and intangible tools necessary to be successful.
District leaders are also encouraged by Governor Ron DeSantis’ recent approval of funds to raise the minimum pay for teachers as well as his plans to increase veteran teacher salaries.
“We value our teachers and applaud efforts to provide accurate compensation,” said Johnson. “Hopefully, the increase, and Florida’s relatively low cost of living, will make it easier for us to attract and retain superior talent.”
The day will include campus tours highlighting facility upgrades, technology advances and ongoing improvement efforts. All participants will automatically be entered into a drawing for a laptop and top candidates will be immediately offered letters of intent.
Founded in 1887, FAMU DRS was originally established as a teacher training school for FAMU and specifically served African American students, who at the time, had limited educational opportunities. Due to its growth and legacy of success, FAMU DRS was officially named a public school district under the Sidney Martin Developmental Research Act in 1991. FAMU DRS is accredited by Cognia, a global accreditation agency, and was noted for an outstanding accreditation rating.
