$300,000 Kenan Trust Award will support TAs to Teachers

The Watson College of Education has been awarded $300,000 from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust to support Teaching Assistants transitioning to fully licensed teachers. The funding will provide tuition support for 15-17 teaching assistants who enroll in a Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts in Teaching program in Elementary Education at the Watson College over the next two years.

“There are hundreds of teaching assistants working in elementary classrooms in school districts here in Southeastern North Carolina,” said Watson College Dean Tracy Linderholm. “Many aspire to become teachers, but they need a flexible program so they can continue working while pursuing a teaching degree. Many also need financial support to cover the cost of tuition. We are thrilled that this generous award from the Kenan Trust will help us create a viable pathway for several new teachers.”

The Watson College offers many pathways for elementary, middle grades and special education professionals looking to transition from teacher assistants to licensed teachers. The Kenan Trust award will support individuals who enroll in one of two elementary education pathways:

• Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education for TAs seeking a bachelor’s degree
• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education for TAs who already hold a bachelor’s degree

Both programs are designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals. Courses are offered fully online with field experience placements that provide the thorough preparation new teachers need to succeed. Successful completion of either program leads to North Carolina teacher licensure and prepares future educators to teach children in grades K-6. 

Planning for the Kenan Trust TA to Teacher scholarship program is underway and additional information will be available in early 2025.