LATROBE, PA – Dr. Tracy McNelly, professor and chair of the Department of Education at Saint Vincent College, recently was quoted in the “U.S. News Higher Ground” newsletter about the College’s participation in Educators Rising, an initiative aimed at eliminating the national teacher shortage by creating efficient pathways to teaching degrees.
In the newsletter, McNelly discussed why campus leaders chose to sign onto the Educators Rising initiative, described ongoing outreach efforts with area high schools and noted additional ways in which higher education institutions can help combat the shortage.
“We believe our teacher preparation program equips future educators not only with the knowledge and instructional skills to be successful, but also with the leadership, professionalism and values needed to make a meaningful difference in their schools and communities,” McNelly said. “Educators Rising allows us to connect with those students early, introduce them to the teaching profession and invite them to become part of a successful program that prepares graduates to lead, serve and inspire in today’s classrooms.”
The Educators Rising initiative aims to create a streamlined trail for high school students to earn college credit toward teacher certification programs at Saint Vincent.
Through this partnership, students who successfully complete designated components of the Educators Rising curriculum and demonstrate mastery of key teaching competencies may earn up to nine college credits upon enrollment at the College.
Eligible students may apply these credits toward a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education, health and physical education, and a wide range of secondary education programs including art, English, mathematics, science, social studies, Spanish and others.
“U.S. News Higher Ground” is a weekly newsletter in which higher education leaders find essential strategies and innovations for running colleges and universities.
About Educators Rising
In 2015, Phi Delta Kappa International—in its 115-year commitment to the profession of education—launched Educators Rising, formerly the Future Educators Association. Today, Educators Rising is cultivating a new generation of highly skilled educators by guiding young people on a path from high school through college and into their teaching careers. By working with aspiring educators who are passionate about serving their communities through public education, Educators Rising is changing the face of teaching.
