"NC TEACH is a geat way to get mid-career professionals ready for the classroom. The biggest surprise to me was the emotional reward of teaching. I should have done this 15 years ago. "
Susan Dryman
Erwin Middle School, Asheville
Former NC TEACHer Jerome Hughes, who teaches English at Asheville High School, was the 2007 Western Regional Teacher of the Year.
read more about Hughes
Derek Dennis, a former NC TEACHer who teaches middle grade science at Rugby Middle School, has been named a Kenan Fellow for the class of 2010.
meet the 2010 Kenan Fellows (PDF)
Western is also an original member of a statewide NC TEACH program administered by The University of North Carolina. NC TEACH is one component of Western’s outstanding teacher preparation program.
Want to Teach in NC through an Alternative Entry Program?
Depending upon your qualifications, you have three options: follow a licensure-only plan, secure a job as a lateral entry teacher, or complete requirements for a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree.
- Licensure-only students learn before they begin teaching—they take all courses for licensure and apply for jobs as a fully licensed teacher.
- Lateral entry teachers learn while they are teaching—they are hired as a lateral entry teacher (you must be considered “highly qualified”) and take licensure courses while teaching.
- MAT students prepare to earn a teaching license and earn a master’s degree too, while they're getting ready for a new career
Western understands the challenges of lateral entry teachers. We know you have the added responsibility of completing licensure requirements in the first three years of teaching, often driving to class at the end of an exhausting school day. In response to these needs, we have designed a program allowing middle and secondary lateral entry teachers of English, mathematics, science, and social studies, BK, and K-12 special education to complete all licensure coursework online.
Additionally, Western is one of four universities participating in NC TEACH II, a U.S. Department of Education Transition to Teaching grant. NC TEACH II works directly with identified school districts to recruit and prepare lateral entry teachers in high-need subject areas who are committed to remaining in a teaching position in a high-need school district for a minimum of three years.
Whichever option you choose—licensure-only or lateral entry—Western can help you reach your goal.
Course Delivery to Fit Your Schedule, NeedsWCU alternative licensure students have the option of taking their licensure courses in person, online, or blend both delivery options to fit their schedules.
Step Up to the Head of the ClassWhy not make teaching your next career move? At Western you’ll find information and encouragement for your decision to step up to the head of the class. We’re here to help you—apply now.
Questions?
Please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.