Grace College launches transition-to-teacher program
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Grace College in Kosciusko County has developed a new, accelerated path to help people who already hold a bachelor’s degree to earn an elementary education teaching license. The school says its Transition to Teaching Elementary program is in response to a growing number of teaching vacancies across the U.S.
The program allows students to earn the license in 18 months, and intends to break down barriers keeping those interested in the teaching profession from getting licensed.
“I frequently speak with administrators and teachers, and there is no question about it – the need for high-quality teachers is great,” said Dr. Cheryl Bremer, dean of the School of Education at Grace College. “This demand for educators has put pressure on our partnership schools, and Grace College wants to be a part of solving this ongoing problem.”
Most of the coursework will be taught online. However, the program begins with a five-day residency in June to be held on Grace College’s campus in Winona Lake.
The residency will give students the opportunity to interact with other teacher candidates in their cohort and get to know their instructors.
“While for many online programs, the faculty remain faceless, we are intentionally structuring this online program to have a personal and relational feel,” said Dr. Mistie Potts, director of alternative programming and partnerships. “At Grace, our students will bond with their classmates and build a lasting network of caring and competent educators that will spur them on in their careers.”
Potts says the program has been designed for anyone with a bachelor’s degree, including non-licensed paraprofessionals at local school corporations. Grace College says for those currently working outside of the school system, alternative clinical experiences will be offered.
Click here to learn more about the program.