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January 30, 2009

Nationally-recognized TEACH Delta Region prepares next wave of Louisiana teachers

The teacher preparation program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe received high marks in a 2008 statewide study and was recently applauded in a New York Times editorial "What Louisiana Can Teach.”

TEACH Delta Region, an alternative certification program in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, is funded by a five-year U.S. Office of Innovation and Improvement grant totaling $5,315,894. A collaborative project between ULM and Jackson State University in Jackson, Miss., the program trains talented individuals to become highly-qualified teachers in the delta region.

The upcoming summer institute will provide participants (new teachers) with hands-on teaching experience, allowing them to work with children while under the supervision and instruction of outstanding ULM practitioners. After completing the 2009 summer institute, the new teachers will take most of their remaining classes online.

“We understand the challenges of high-need schools, and we are making headway placing teachers in the classrooms and giving these teachers a quality education and strong foundation for their success,” said Dr. Sandi Lemoine, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development at ULM.

Professionals with bachelor degrees are encouraged to apply for admission in this fast-track program and earn a master of arts in teaching for elementary, secondary education or mild/moderate special education. Participants will also prepare to pass teacher certification exams such as PRAXIS.

“Not only is this a fast-track program, but these individuals can begin their teaching careers within a few months and earn salaries equal to a first-year teacher. Monroe City’s high-need schools are paying $39,000 for first-year teachers, and our program adds a $5,000 stipend to that amount," said DeWanna Greer, Recruiter for TEACH Delta Region.

For more information on this program, contact TEACH Delta Region at 318-342-3000 or by email at altcert@ulm.edu. The application deadline for summer entry is Tuesday, March 31.

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