RCPS partners with GSU to prepare, retain teachers

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA– Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) will partner with Georgia State University’s College of Education & Human Development (CEHD) to help reduce the teacher shortage in Georgia.

The Pathways to Teacher Credentialing Project will give provisionally licensed teachers who are currently in the classroom and paraprofessionals with bachelor’s degrees in RCPS the opportunity to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree, which will prepare them to become certified teachers of record. At the same time, licensed and certified classroom teachers will earn a Master of Education degree to enhance their skills and advance in their careers.

RCPS teachers and paraprofessionals who earn advanced degrees through the program will commit to teaching in the district for a certain number of years after they graduate, which provides schools in Rockdale County with a more stable workforce.

“Through this initiative, RCPS induction-level teachers will be provided with a streamlined pathway to obtain their Master of Arts degree,” said Michele Stephens, RCPS director of human resources. “This will give them the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the classroom. We believe this partnership will not only benefit the educators but will provide positive learning experiences and outcomes for our students.”

“This is a unique partnership that establishes a sustainable and viable pipeline of teachers equipped with an enhanced skillset to serve RCPS students,” said RCPS Superintendent Terry Oatts.

By recruiting educators who already work in these districts and who have demonstrated a commitment to a career in education, the Pathways to Teacher Credentialing Project will reinforce the state’s teacher workforce and give Georgia students a quality education from well-prepared educators.

This program is made possible by funding from Georgia State, RCPS, federal- and state-level TEACH Grants and The Goizueta Foundation.

“The quality of a child’s teacher has a tremendous impact on their learning,” said Laura May, CEHD associate dean and project director. “We’re excited to see Rockdale County Public Schools support this meaningful, long-term professional development program.”

For more information about joining the program,  contact mstephens@rockdale.k12.ga.us.