Columbia College and SC Technical College System Launch ‘Tech To Teach’ Initiative to Address Teacher Shortage

Columbia College Partners with SC Technical College System to Train New Teachers

COLUMBIA, SC — In a significant move to address the shortage of teachers in South Carolina, Columbia College has formed a partnership with the South Carolina Technical College System. This collaboration was announced on Thursday afternoon by Columbia College president Dr. John Dozier and Dr. Tim Hardee, who oversees the technical college system. The new program aims to enable students to pursue teaching careers through online and evening classes offered right in their communities.

What is the ‘Tech To Teach’ Program?

The program, known as ‘Tech To Teach’, is designed to facilitate a smoother transition for students currently enrolled in technical colleges who want to become educators. This initiative seeks to fill many teaching vacancies across the state by making it easier for aspiring teachers to graduate from college and enter the teaching workforce.

Where and When is the Program Offered?

Launched as a pilot program this fall, the ‘Tech To Teach’ initiative is currently available at seven technical schools throughout South Carolina. The objective is to eventually expand this program to all 16 technical colleges in the state. Initially set to run for five years, the program represents a proactive effort to support the education sector in the region.

Why is This Program Important?

The need for qualified teachers has become increasingly urgent in the state of South Carolina. Many schools are facing significant staffing shortages, which can impact the quality of education students receive. By partnering with the state’s technical college system, Columbia College hopes to bridge this gap by allowing students to easily transition into teacher certification programs while obtaining their degrees. This program not only aims at meeting the demand for qualified educators but also enhances accessibility for students who might otherwise struggle to complete traditional teaching programs.

How Will the Program Function?

Students participating in the ‘Tech To Teach’ program will have the opportunity to take courses online, allowing them to balance their education with other commitments, such as work and family responsibilities. The collaboration emphasizes accessibility and flexibility in higher education, ensuring that a broader demographic of students can pursue teaching careers without the need to relocate or significantly alter their current lives.

The Road Ahead

As the program progresses, both Columbia College and the South Carolina Technical College System will assess its effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. The vision is not only to produce more qualified teachers but also to foster a supportive environment where students can thrive in their educational journeys.

The announcement of the ‘Tech To Teach’ program illustrates a commitment to improving education in South Carolina. With the combined efforts of Columbia College and the technical college system, the initiative stands to make a meaningful impact, ensuring that more individuals can step into teaching roles, thereby enriching the educational landscape of their communities.