Press Release: Camden Education Fund & Camden U Announce New “Teacher Pathway” Initiative

Camden, New Jersey (July 6, 2023) - The Camden Education Fund and Camden U, is pleased to announce that it is accepting applications for the first federally recognized teacher apprenticeship in New Jersey. The teaching fellowship program is designed for paraprofessionals while providing an opportunity to earn a teaching certification and become eligible for full-time teaching positions. The “Teacher Pathway” program is available to all Camden paraprofessionals interested in earning their teaching certification, including those who have not attended college and those with an associate degree or bachelor’s degree. The certification path is customized for each participant.

“I know firsthand the importance of a registered apprenticeship program. I am a proud graduate of the other four-hear school, an electrical apprenticeship. These programs provide the ability to earn while you learn and graduate with the skills you need to find family sustaining careers,” said U.S. Representative Donald Norcross, NJ 1st District. “The Teacher Pathway Apprenticeship is a great example of non-profits working with local, state, and federal officials to create opportunities and jobs in South Jersey in a high need field. This first federally recognized teacher apprenticeship program in the state will train the next generation of educators and provide a critical pipeline of teachers. Everyone should have access to a quality education that leads to a family sustaining career, and I applaud Camden U and Camden Education Fund for doing just that.”

“Teacher Pathway provides financial aid and resources for our paraprofessional community to level up through a customized and strategic plan. The current teacher shortage in New Jersey demands that communities work together to find solutions. Camden U is working with school districts, universities, and local organizations to address gaps in the teacher preparation pipeline focusing on Camden County. The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship is working alongside organizations like Camden U and Camden Education Fund to provide clear pathway options for students seeking careers in Education,” said Mayor Victor Carstarphen.

“The Teacher Pathway Program is our collaborative ‘grow-our-own’ solution to addressing the regional teacher shortage,” said Michael Blatt, State Director, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship. “The program’s vision is to achieve incredible success. Additionally, the structured pathway will encourage and develop a strong teacher workforce that taps into local talent to improve the retention of our teachers.”

Through Teacher Pathway, Camden U will provide asynchronous college courses and academic support to paraprofessionals. Paraprofessionals will be supported in earning their bachelor’s degree, as necessary, and completing teaching certification requirements, including the Praxis exam. Camden U will offer ongoing, one-on-one counseling throughout the process. Camden Education Fund has committed $150,000 in grant funding to support the Teacher Pathway program, enabling Camden U to recruit, enroll, and support Camden paraprofessionals throughout the process.

“We’re thrilled that Camden U is the first federally registered teacher apprenticeship program in the state. As the state continues to grapple with learning loss and teacher shortages, we are reminded how fortunate we are to have incredible talent already in our schools. This announcement is critical to opening the door for local talent to access federal training and support,” said Giana Campbell, Executive Director of Camden Education Fund.

Camden U hopes to enroll its first cohort of Teacher Pathway candidates by late August 2023. Paraprofessionals from schools across the Camden City School District, including Camden High School, Yorkship Elementary School, Davis Family School, Cooper’s Poynt Family School, and Catto Family School. Those interested in the program can apply here: www.camdenu.org/apply#TP-form

“Camden U’s Teacher Pathway initiative strives to develop current and new educators who are prepared to support the holistic learning and development of students – academic, social, and emotional needs– and create engaging and welcoming learning environments without disrupting their work-life balance,” said Khary Golden, Executive Director of Camden U.

Camden U courses and support are offered off-hours, asynchronously, or at the candidate’s request, enabling all candidates in the Teacher Pathway program to work toward certification while continuing to serve as paraprofessionals in Camden’s schools.

A press conference and signing will take place on Thursday, July 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Camden City Hall.

About Camden Education Fund:

The Camden Education Fund (CEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to accelerating progress in Camden’s public school system. CEF works with families, school partners, and community leaders to identify citywide needs in education. CEF then provides grants and develops strategic partnerships to address these citywide needs. Grantees include schools, non-profits, and universities.

In 2020, Camden Education Fund committed $1.2 million to public schools in Camden, including $800,000 for the Open Doors, Safe Classrooms grant to help schools prepare to safely reopen and $370,000 to ensure all students had access to laptops. In 2021, Camden Education Fund announced $1.2 million in funding to public schools in Camden to enable the creation of new innovative settings for students with disabilities.

About Camden U:

Camden U is Camden’s first and only college program, designed specifically for working adults. Through a partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), Camden U provides working adults with pathways to earn either an Associate’s or bachelor’s degree, with concentrations in Business, Communications, and Healthcare Management.

Camden U, in partnership with SNHU, offers a project-based curriculum designed to provide working adults with a fast, flexible, and affordable hybrid college experience. Comprised of a team of “Degree Navigators”, Camden U is committed to providing customized, one-on-one support to students throughout their education.