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.  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.

Since the first cohort graduated in 2021, 16 classroom teachers have been hired by Clay County District Schools.

The District and St. Leo University believe the proposed Education PTP program will increase the number of teacher candidates committed to the education of the students of Clay.  The PTP program 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 serve students of Clay. Clay County anticipates a yearly enrollment of 10-15 qualified candidates to enroll in the PTP program. Clay County anticipates a higher completion rate due to the collaborative support, mentorship, online course schedule, and financial support provided through the PTP program.

Goal 2:  Enact a highly effective recruitment and professional development plan along with opportunities for growth and career development to ensure all students have access to a world class education to become life-long learners for success in a global and competitive workplace and in acquiring applicable life skills.

Strategy 2.1.1 Develop strategic partnerships with organizations and universities to source new talent for a diverse workforce that is effective and highly-qualified for non-instructional, instructional, and administrative positions throughout CCDS.

Strategy 2.1.2. Increase the opportunities for high school students to begin the development of
careers to “grow-our-own” and strengthen the pipeline from student to employee.

Strategy 2.1.3 Expand involvement in community-sponsored career fairs, providing the opportunity to recruit a diverse population to the multiple career paths within CCDS.

Strategy 2.1.5 Collaborate to strengthen CCDS’ branding and marketing to increase the awareness and presence of career opportunities.

Approval of Memorandum of Understanding between Clay County District Schools and St. Leo University.