Two years ago, NAU joined forces with six West Valley school districts to develop an innovative program that uses flexible, streamlined degree progression plans to help bring talented educators into Arizona classrooms full-time, especially those who already work in the field but are not yet fully certified.
After enrolling an inaugural group of 13 students into the NAU West Valley Pathways to Teaching program in Spring 2023, the College of Education is celebrating the initiative’s first nine graduates this week. With their state-approved, nationally accredited degrees and newly acquired expertise in enhanced teaching practices, these graduates will help combat the state’s looming teacher shortage.
The partnership is a Grow Your Own (GYO) program, meaning it is designed to recruit and uplift educators who are already involved in their schools and communities, including non-teaching and uncertified K-12 faculty members. While graduate programs are delivered online, undergraduate in-person courses are taught at local district schools in the afternoon and evening to maximize convenience for working educators and teaching assistants.
“NAU proudly champions Grow Your Own partnerships, strengthening the pipeline of certified educators dedicated to advancing educational equity,” said Ramona Mellott, dean of NAU’s College of Education. “We celebrate these Lumberjack graduates for their remarkable achievements and eagerly anticipate the lasting impact they will make in the teaching profession and the communities they serve.”
Studies have found that when teachers have full certification, a major in their field and extensive prior teaching experience, their students are more likely to obtain advanced academic achievements, see major behavioral improvements and have fewer absences.
Teachers with additional credentials are also more likely to stay in their schools and positions, signaling higher employee retention and satisfaction. With these elements at the forefront of Pathways to Teaching, NAU’s groundbreaking partnership is not only encouraging future teachers to take critical career steps by accommodating their needs but also ensuring Arizona’s up-and-coming students reap the benefits of truly exceptional teaching.
Those involved in the program also receive advance consideration for open positions within the partnered school districts: Tolleson, Littleton, Union, Pendergast and Buckeye Elementary School Districts and Saddle Mountain Unified School District.
Enrollment in the fast-expanding NAU West Valley Pathways to Teaching program grew to 60 undergraduate and graduate students in certification degree programs in Fall 2024.
The program is open to anyone in the West Valley who is interested in pursuing a degree leading to teacher certification. With the Arizona Teachers Academy Scholarship, students can embark on their educational journey tuition-free. Program applications for the Fall 2025 semester will be open until June 15. Students interested in applying can fill out the digital interest form to get started.