Carroll Community College is participating in the Teacher Academy of Maryland, a statewide agreement between public high schools and colleges that gives students who are considering a career in teaching initial exposure to the profession and an early start in college coursework.

A written document that spells out expectations and curriculum requirements for eligible students, called an articulation agreement, was signed June 17, 2008. In the agreement, high school students considering the teaching profession participate in a series of modules composed of education course work offered at various Carroll County high schools, ending with a senior year education field placement. The successful completion of this track of coursework is equivalent to four education course credits at the community college for students who qualify. The advantage to students is they have the opportunity to try the profession before they reach college and need to decide whether they want to major in teacher education.

“I want to commend the college faculty and high school instructors who worked together to formulate this agreement that will ultimately benefit our students,” said Carroll Community College President Dr. Faye Pappalardo. “This is an excellent example of how working together as partners, we can help students better identify their career paths and ensure successful outcomes.”

“We are excited about the opportunity this partnership will offer our students. The knowledge and firsthand experience they will acquire will be invaluable as they decide whether to pursue a teaching career. Programs such as this can only serve to improve the overall quality of our future teachers and the education our students will receive,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Ecker.

College Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. James Ball said, “This program is truly unique and exists in no other state. With our intense regional need for teachers, this program provides a wonderful service for students and for the regional education employment sector. Students benefit by earning college credit for their high school education courses. Credits are applied to the Carroll Community College Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) Program. If a student meets certain GPA requirements, he or she will have a seamless transfer to education programs in the University System of Maryland.”

College Chair of Academic Services and Education Dr. Libby Little said, “Through this agreement, students can begin early to develop content knowledge, understand terminology, and move from theory to practice.”

CCPS Supervisor of Career and Technology Education Marjorie Lohnes added, “The articulation agreement is an effective means of moving students from high school to college. It recognizes the shortage of middle and high school teachers, and provides students an opportunity to explore teaching as a career option.”

CCPS Coordinator of Career Development Kyler Brengle said, “The significance of this agreement is that is provides students with a smooth transition from high school to post-secondary education. It is a win-win situation for everyone.” Brengle also said that students from all seven county high schools can participate.

College President Dr. Faye Pappalardo and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Ecker sign the articulation agreement for the teacher education program.

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