San Diego-based National University announced Friday that it formed a partnership with the nonprofit Teach for America-San Diego to address a growing teacher shortage in California.
The collaboration will focus on providing science and math instructors who will commit to teaching in low-income schools for two years and helping to address educational inequality.
The program also plans to turn out special education teachers.
More than 25 Teach For America-San Diego members will begin training this summer through National University’s Sanford College of Education, named after financial supporter T. Denny Sanford. The program allows members to teach while earning a preliminary credential and includes the option of earning a master’s degree.
“This partnership with Teach For America aligns with our mission to provide multiple pathways for quality and inspiring teachers, particularly as California and other regions around the country face a shortage of educators,” said Michael Cunningham, chancellor of the National University System.
National University cited studies that show the supply of teachers in California is at a 10-year low, and with current educators nearing retirement, there could be as many as 100,000 job openings over the next decade.
—City News Service
