WMU program helps those already involved in the classroom to get fully teacher certified

KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A program at Western Michigan University is preparing school classroom assistants to become teachers.

The Urban Teacher Residency Program is set up in collaboration with Kalamazoo Public Schools and Benton Harbor Area Schools to help those already involved in teaching to ramp up and get fully teacher certified.

Those classroom assistants with a Bachelor’s degree are eligible for the 12-month residency after which they earn a Master’s in Education as well as teacher certification.

Program participants get a $20,000 stipend in addition to their school wages and will have a teaching job waiting in either of the two participating districts after graduating from the program.

(reporting from Bill Strange/TTWN Media Networks Inc)