West Allis — School Choice Wisconsin and Concordia University today announced a new initiative to help address the educator shortage in Wisconsin private choice schools and provide an affordable and accessible pathway for professionals from a variety of backgrounds to earn a Concordia teaching certificate.
The Concordia Teaching and Learning Academy (CTLA) is an online program that combines experiential learning with one-on-one mentorship to arm aspiring teachers with the skills and tools — and education — needed to make a difference in the lives of students. In just a year and a half and at a cost as low as $9,000 – the CTLA is both a convenient and cost-effective solution to the teacher shortage facing Wisconsin’s choice schools. The CTLA is accessible to all Wisconsin residents who hold a bachelor’s degree.
“This is an exciting opportunity, not only for our member schools, but also for mid-career professionals interested in giving back to the community by bringing their real-world experience into the classroom,” School Choice Wisconsin President Nicholas Kelly said. “CTLA graduates will help private choice schools across Wisconsin continue to be competitive in a highly competitive market to hire experienced professionals to deliver their curriculum and maintain the high standards they have set in their schools while remaining fiscally responsible due to inadequate state funding.
“CUW’s partnership with School Choice Wisconsin is a unique opportunity to support our private and parochial schools in training teachers in an immersion and mentorship model,” said Dr. Adam Paape, assistant dean of the School of Education at Concordia University. “The CTLA will provide new teachers the knowledge and support that they need to be successful and continue in the profession while allowing them to pursue licensure and a degree down the road. We look forward to this vibrant partnership to growing and flourishing.”
Established in 1881, Concordia University has long been a leader in online education and serving the needs of non-traditional teacher candidates. Concordia has offered online learning opportunities since 1998, and currently serves more than 9,000 students across all programs. Credits earned through the CTLA can be applied toward further study, including a Concordia University masters degree and Wisconsin teacher licensure. Last year, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction issued more than 3,800 emergency teacher licenses to allow non-licensed individuals to fill teaching vacancies.
More information about the CTLA can be found here. To be connected with a representative of School Choice Wisconsin to discuss this initiative or the impact of the teacher shortage, please respond to this email.
