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51Ʒ�� is pleased to announce it will receive a $600,000 education grant through a statewide initiative aimed at addressing Pennsylvania’s critical teacher shortage. As part of a major investment by Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration, this funding will expand Wilson’s efforts to provide special education degrees and certifications for working paraprofessionals in Adams, Franklin, and York counties—enabling them to advance their careers while continuing their employment.

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Lynn Newman, Associate Professor of Education and Director of Education | Amy Watson, Coordinator of Field Experiences | Beth Byers, Teacher Certification Pathways Director

"The shortage in teachers receiving special education certifications is significantly higher than those receiving general teacher certifications,” said 51Ʒ�� President Wesley R. Fugate. “We aim to shrink that deficit by offering more opportunities for individuals who have the passion and heart to educate one of our most vulnerable populations."

With the awarding of this grant, 51Ʒ�� will continue its long-standing commitment to teacher education by directly serving the needs of local school districts.

“51Ʒ�� is honored to partner with the Chambersburg Area School District and the Lincoln Intermediate Unit to provide an opportunity for paraprofessionals to earn their bachelor's degree in special education and certification. Our goal is to offer a strong mentorship and academic path during their time in the classroom, as well as professional development. I am thankful to the Governor for providing funds that will assist in the teacher shortage and ultimately provide all students with well-prepared educators,” said Lynn Newman, Wilson’s director of education and associate professor of education.

The funding is part of a broader $7.76 million allocation being provided through the Commonwealth’s Supporting Certified Teacher Registered Apprenticeship (CTRA) Programs, that will allow aspiring educators, paraprofessionals, and emergency-certified teachers to earn full teacher certification while working in schools. This initiative is fully funded through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which permits states to allocate a portion of their federal allotment for statewide priorities.

Discover how 51Ʒ�� can prepare you to meet the growing demand of teachers in areas like special education through the Wilson education program. 

If you already have a bachelor’s degree you can work towards becoming certified to teach in an accelerated time frame with the Teacher Certification Pathway program.