Education
BY HANNAH JOHNSON
Celina ISD offers pathway to teacher certification
Celina ISD staff members have the opportunity to earn their teacher’s certification through a partnership with Abilene Chris- tian University. The gist Starting this school year, the district has partnered with Abilene Christian University to offer a fully online degree pro- gram and professional develop- ment pathways for educators and teachers in the Celina area. The partnership is designed to provide instructional aides, also known as paraprofessionals, who currently hold associate degrees, with the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree and obtain a teaching certificate. Participants will co-enroll in ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies program and in Region 10’s Educator Certificate Program. This will help fill the pipeline for teachers as the district grows, said Jason Johnston, senior chief academic officer, during an October board meeting. Something to know The maximum estimated tuition cost per year is $10,000, according to the district. CISD employees are eligible for a 10% reduction on all ACU online programs and the $50 application fee will be waived. The district is pursuing a partnership with Lamar National Bank to offer a deferred low-in- terest loan to employees enrolled in the associate teacher program, Johnston said. The loan will be deferred until employees earn the required credentials, according to his presentation. CISD will reimburse the costs of the program within three years if the employee remains employed by CISD, Johnston said.
Possible pathways Celina ISD will consider future education advancement options to offer its employees through the university partnership. Developing teachers
Master’s degree
Creating school leaders
Master’s degree
Advancing administrators
Doctor of Education (EdD)
SOURCE: CELINA ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The approach Aspiring teachers in the pro- gram will be supported through a “leveled-up” mentor program, Johnston said. Mentors, called anchor teachers, will provide additional training and support to the associ- ate teachers. Anchor teachers will receive a stipend of $4,500. “We want to make sure they have additional support,” Johnston said. “We’re creating the space to be able to support [associate teachers] and ensure they’re being successful.” Looking ahead Celina ISD is pursuing addi- tional growth opportunities for current staff. Potential opportunities include helping current teachers earn their master’s degree and helping administrators earn a doctorate in education for future advancement. “This is the starting point,” Superintendent Thomas Maglis- ceau said during the meeting.
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