The gist
Starting this school year, the district has partnered with Abilene Christian University to offer a fully online degree program and professional development pathways for educators and teachers in the Celina area.
The partnership is designed to provide instructional aides, who currently hold associate degrees, with the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree and obtain a teaching certificate. 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-interest 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.
The approach
Aspiring teachers in the program will be supported through a “leveled-up” mentor program,” Johnston said.
Mentors, called anchor teachers, will provide additional training and support to the associate 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 additional 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 Maglisceau said during the meeting.
