At Paularino Elementary, a recent first-grade writing lesson looked more like choreography than a traditional class. Students brainstormed what firefighters use, wear, and who they help, while Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) Caryn Broesamle and the classroom teacher seamlessly guided them to sort ideas into categories and build complete sentences. As students worked, the two educators circulated through the room, crouching beside students to answer questions, offer reminders, and spark deeper thinking.

This is co-teaching in action—a model where classroom teachers and TOSAs share the responsibility of planning and delivering lessons. The approach builds student confidence while strengthening the strategies teachers use every day.

TOSAs are fully credentialed teachers who support classroom instruction across all NMUSD schools. They partner with classroom teachers to co-teach, develop lessons, model strategies, analyze student data, and share practices that enhance both teaching and learning.

For first grader Jojo, the energy in the classroom is unmistakable: “I feel happy when we have two teachers because it adds surprise to the classroom.” Once intimidated by writing, Jojo now feels more confident using thinking maps to turn brainstorming words into complete sentences. “When we had to say the whole sentences together, I thought it was hard,” Jojo admitted. “But then it made sense.”

Teachers see the difference, too. Second-year teacher Olivia Nguyen says working with Broesamle has transformed her practice. “She’s been immensely helpful in my professional development,” Nguyen explained. “It’s so collaborative. Any questions I have, I know I have someone I can go to for recommendations, and she can model how it should look for students.” 

Co-teaching has also allowed Nguyen the opportunity to observe her students more closely. “Having a co-teacher gives me time to really watch how my students are learning,” she explained. “I can see who’s engaged, who might need more support, and who could be challenged more. That insight helps us adjust our teaching.”

Broesamle helped develop a pacing plan and teaching guide to help first-grade teachers implement the "Write From the Beginning" initiative. “The most rewarding part is watching students use what we designed and realize it’s working.” 

TOSAs collaborate with teachers of all experience levels, debrief after co-teaching sessions, and carry strategies from one classroom to another, building a culture of collaboration throughout the campus. 

The results are visible with students approaching writing with more confidence, teachers adopting new strategies, and the classroom energy is more collaborative.

“The co-teaching model is a direct reflection of our school’s mission,” says Principal Bonnie Hinton. “It’s not about test scores; it’s about fostering a collaborative spirit among our staff so that we provide every student with a true sense of connection and belonging, along with the support and resources to succeed. When our teachers feel supported, our students feel unstoppable.”

The co-teaching model at Paularino is building stronger teachers, engaged students, and a schoolwide culture of shared growth. What’s happening here reflects a broader commitment across NMUSD, where districtwide TOSAs provide support that strengthens teaching and learning in every school.