The overall goal of the Aspiring Educator Pathway Project (AEPP) is to empower future
educators through a collaborative, dynamic, experience-rich training program that
champions cultural diversity and inclusivity, fostering a learning environment where
every student's background and experiences are valued and integrated into the educational
experience.
Purpose
The purpose of AEPP is to partner with local school entities to review best practices
in developing fluid programs between ESU and the local education entities that educate
current students in grades 8-16 on the role of an educator. This program will create
in-school clubs that inform on the profession of education, pair students with a mentor
teacher in the field for clinical experiences, and provide opportunities for student
professional development in their schools and on the higher ed campus. This project
will offer dual enrollment courses to interested students, introduce students to on
campus college experiences, continue mentorships during college field experiences,
and provide ongoing support to first- year teachers. Through a collaborative approach
AEPP's purpose will allow students the additional support needed to complete their
preparation and return to their community schools for employment.
Vision
In an effort to proactively combat the education workforce shortage, the framework
for this project is grounded in the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) approved
teacher recruitment toolkit, Diversifying the Teacher Pipeline. This research-driven
approach pairs school entities with Institutions of Higher Education to work collaboratively
in the development of future teacher clubs, developing cohorts of students to learn
more about a profession in education.
