This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Gracelyn University.

The edLeader Panel recording can be accessed here.

Across the country, districts are struggling to fill classroom vacancies, especially in high-need areas. Yet over 1.2 million paraprofessionals already serve in our schools, many with years of classroom experience and a heart for students. Research shows that over 90% of paraprofessionals want to become teachers. So why aren’t they?

Join us for a timely, research-backed edWeb podcast designed for principals, HR directors, and special education leaders. You discover how to unlock the potential of the paraprofessionals already working in your schools, without adding cost or administrative burden.

We share data from 20 school districts, introduce the 10 pillars of effective Grow Your Own (GYO) design, and explore how Gracelyn University’s fully online, low-cost degree program and certification pathways are helping districts sustainably fill the teacher pipeline. Listeners will learn:

• Why current GYO efforts often fall short—and how to fix them
• What paraprofessionals need to succeed, from flexible design to mentorship
• How Hereford ISD enrolled almost 60 paraprofessionals in their GYO efforts
• The content and certification strategies today’s educators need most

Walk away with actionable insights and tools to grow your own future teachers, starting now. This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 school leaders, district leaders, district HR directors, and special education directors and teachers.

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