The shortage of educators and school staffers in Pennsylvania public schools has reached a crisis level, prompting the launch of a new program called “Educators Rising.” This program aims to recruit future educators from local high schools to address the growing need for teachers in the state.
Ten schools are already participating in the program, with students attending the Central Westmoreland Career and Technology Center to develop their teaching skills. Donna Rain-O’Dell, the workforce education coordinator at the center, highlighted the “Grow Your Own” program at Mount Pleasant High School, where students gain hands-on experience by observing and assisting teachers in classrooms a couple of days a week.
The program also includes a partnership with The Learning Lamp and Shippensburg University, allowing students to earn credits towards higher education. This dual-enrollment opportunity provides students with a head start on their college education while preparing them for a career in teaching.
Amanda Funk, a CTE instructor at McCaskey High School in Lancaster, emphasized the importance of mentoring students through their college years and into their teaching careers. The program aims to attract a diverse group of students and provide them with the necessary support to succeed in the education field.
Overall, the “Educators Rising” program is a proactive approach to addressing the shortage of educators in Pennsylvania public schools and ensuring that future generations have access to quality education.