Kutztown University Early College Academy Graduates First Cohort to Address Teacher Shortage

From Kutztown University

Kutztown University’s Early College Academy launched in fall 2024 as a new take on dual enrollment and celebrates its first graduation class while welcoming the majority of participating students as new Golden Bears this fall.

Last year’s program focused on high school students with an interest in working with children and education studies. Students travelled to KU to take classes in the fall and spring semesters, earning college credit while getting an early look at the college experience.

“At its core, the Early College Academy is about access, opportunity, and purpose,” said Dr. Rebecca Burns, dean, College of Education. “It gives students a head start on their college journey while helping to address one of the most urgent challenges in education today — ensuring that no classroom goes unfilled and that every student has a well-prepared teacher, every single day.”

In its first year, 39 students from 14 school districts across Berks and Lehigh Counties joined the program, with 37 completing the program this past spring: a 95% graduation rate. 81% of those students (30) applied to KU, with 22 committed to join the university this fall.

The bottom line: KU’s Early College Academy for Education had 59.5% of its cohort choose KU to continue their education.

The second cohort for the Early College Academy is expected to nearly double this fall. The academy is expanding to two tracks: education and general studies, with 72 students currently registered — an 84% increase in student participation.

“The overwhelming interest in the Early College Academy shows that students and families are eager for innovative, affordable pathways to college,” Burns said. “The program is a powerful example of what’s possible when universities and school districts collaborate to create meaningful, accessible pathways for students. We are thrilled to expand the program and continue building a strong pipeline into the teaching profession for the commonwealth.”

In May 2024, KU was awarded a near-$1 million grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to support the program to address the state’s teacher shortage. Students enrolled in the academy receive a significantly reduced tuition rate through the partnership. Students will be offered a waived admission fee, additional support in enrolling in classes during the year, and do not need to pursue a career in education.

Benefits of the program include:

• Completion of a 12-credit college semester before high school graduation.
• Reduced tuition rate and application fee waiver.
• Courses scheduled on the same days to minimize time lost in travel and maximize the on-campus experience.
• Classes taught by highly qualified Kutztown University faculty.
• Increased confidence for enrolling at a college or university.
• Improved scholarship opportunities.
• Growth in skills for success and retention once enrolled in college.
• Development of familiarity with the university community.
• Access to Rohrbach Library, KU Planetarium, and STEAMWORKS — KU’s makerspace.
• Enhanced knowledge for decisions regarding future career options.

Inquiries and interested districts should contact Burns at burns@kutztown.edu or 610-683-4300.

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Source: bctv