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 School Board of Clay County |
C6 - Memorandum of Understanding between Clay County District Schools and St. Leo University
The attached Memorandum of Understanding, Paraprofessional to Professional Program (PTP) shows the desire of Clay County District Schools to support its para-professionals, classroom assistants, and other non-instructional personnel in their pursuit of a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Education leading to Florida teacher certification and employment in a Clay County classroom. Students who successfully complete the PTP program will be guaranteed a teacher contract with Clay County District Schools within their certified field.
Clay County, like other Florida counties, is experiencing a shortage of teachers in several high need fields like Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and STEM courses. Clay County has a population of paraprofessionals who possess an Associate of Arts degree. In a two year period, these paraprofessionals can help fill this gap of teachers through the education program offered through St. Leo University and Clay County District Schools.
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The District and St. Leo University believe the proposed Education PTP program will increase the number of teacher candidates committed to the education of Clay students. The PTP program, through a cohort for Clay County employees, will provide accredited educational courses leading to Florida teaching certification in Elementary Education or Middle Grades Education. The PTP will provide flexible teaching practicum placements, allowing Clay County employees to remain employed, in their paraprofessional roles, while completing their Education degree. Faculty support, exposure and training in Clay County curriculum, and mentorships during and after graduation, will lead to highly qualified teachers ready to service Clay County students. Clay County anticipates a yearly enrollment of 15-20 qualified candidates to enroll in the PTP program. Clay County anticipates a higher completion rate due to the collaborative support or the cohort and mentorship, evening and online course schedule, and financial support provided through the PTP program.
Goal 5. Develop and support great educators, support personnel and leaders.
Initiative 5.1.1 - Recruit and retain highly skilled, qualified, and diverse educators, leaders, and support staff.
Approval of Memorandum of Understanding between Clay County District Schools and St. Leo University.
David S. Broskie, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. (904) 336-6701 David.Broskie@myoneclay.net
There is no initial financial impact to Clay County. Possible financial impact could be the offering of a $500 scholarship for each qualified candidate to assist with the cost of books for the PTP program. This scholarship would be contingent upon successful completion of the program. Approval of a $500 scholarship will provide additional support to Clay County support employees by the Board and will provide needed financial support enabling these employees to enroll and pursue an Educational degree leading to a Florida teaching certificate. The financial impact, with 15-20 qualified candidates, would be $7,500.00 to $10,000 per year.
Signed Clay St Leo MOU.pdf