Emory & Henry University, Virginia Highlands Community College, Bristol Virginia Public Schools, Washington County Public Schools, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop and implement an innovative pathway for students to obtain teacher certification through a collaborative educational pipeline.
“We are thrilled to partner with our public school and community college partners to create an educational pathway that supports the development of future teachers in our region,” said Dr. Michael Puglisi, Provost, Emory & Henry University. “This initiative will not only benefit our students but will help meet the growing demand for educators in our communities.”
This partnership aims to address the critical need for qualified educators by offering students from the local area an accelerated route to become licensed teachers. Students will have access to a streamlined pathway through this program. The opportunity includes experiential learning opportunities, dual enrollment courses, and a structured course sequence designed to take them from high school through to a bachelor’s degree in education and teacher licensure.
Abingdon High School senior, Gavin Songer, was among more than 25 high school students attending the signing event on the campus of Virginia Highlands Community College. “I have so many teachers who have helped me and are my absolute role models...I am interested in becoming a teacher so I can make a difference in others’ lives like they have me.”
Program Highlights:
Emory & Henry University (EHU):
EHU will provide the final two years of the 1+1+2 Teachers for Tomorrow Program, enabling
students to complete their bachelor’s degree and obtain teacher licensure through
a prescribed curriculum.
EHU will also offer students a discounted tuition rate of $7,500 per year (excluding the Virginia
Tuition Assistance Grant), making the program more accessible and affordable.
EHU has developed a visit program offering students the chance to explore the EHU
campus during their early years at VHCC. This program provides valuable exposure to
EHU's academic environment, including classroom experiences, as well as a glimpse into
campus life.
EHU will share annual data with VHCC on transfer students, including persistence rates,
graduation outcomes, and job placement statistics, to ensure ongoing success and improvement
of the program.
Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC):
VHCC will offer dual-enrollment classes to BVPS and WCPS students, allowing them to
complete the Uniform Certificate of General Studies (UCGS) and earn the first year of
the 1+1+2 Teachers for Tomorrow Program.
Additionally, VHCC will provide EDU-specific courses as part of this program, enabling
students to earn credits toward their Associate of Science (AS) degree in Education, which
constitutes the second year of the program.
Washington County Public Schools (WCPS):
Starting in 10th grade, students will receive information about the "Teachers for
Tomorrow" pathway, encouraging them to consider a career in education.
Juniors and seniors will gain valuable classroom experience, offering them hands-on exposure
to the teaching profession.
Dual-enrollment opportunities will be available for 11th and 12th graders, enabling students
to earn up to one year of college credit, setting the foundation for their future studies
.
The goal of this collaborative effort is to create a sustainable, well-supported pipeline that allows students from the region to enter the teaching profession more quickly, effectively, and with the skills needed to succeed in today’s classrooms.
“How wonderful that through this program we will be able to affordably train today’s students to be tomorrow’s teachers...all right here in southwest Virginia,” said Dr. Adam Hutchison, President, Virginia Highlands Community College. “This outstanding opportunity is a true testament to the partnerships and collaborative spirit that is so vital to providing opportunities for the future.”
Through this comprehensive program, students will gain the skills, credentials, and experience they need to make a meaningful impact as educators, while simultaneously addressing the needs of local schools and communities. This collaboration serves as a model for how higher education, community colleges, and K-12 schools can work together to provide quality education and training for the next generation of teachers.
“As long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher just like my grandma,” said Kinsley Bird, a Patrick Henry High School graduate and current VHCC student. “I cannot imagine doing anything else – and this program just made my path smoother and more affordable.” Kinsley will be joining the Emory & Henry family this spring of 2025.
Press Release Courtesy of Emory & Henry University
