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| Press Release | |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Terry Freeman |
| October 11, 2002 | USC Communication Services |
| (719) 549-2219 | |
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Pueblo -- A major grant from the U.S. Department of Education will help to increase the number of qualified teachers in southeastern Colorado and ensure a quality education for their students. The Southern Colorado Teacher in Residence Partnership, an alliance between the University of Southern Colorado and high-needs local education districts, will receive $1.7 million over the next five years. "This is great news for the University's Teacher Education program and will help to ensure quality teachers in our area," said Victoria Marquesen, USC associate dean of education. Participating school districts are currently part of the Southern Colorado Teacher Education Alliance, with the addition of the Fountain-Fort Carson District. The project builds on the current Teacher-in-Residence Program, an alternative teacher education program, initiated in Fall 2001 by USC and Pueblo School Districts 60 and 70 to meet the needs for qualified teachers in southeastern Colorado. "This grant will allow us to further partnerships that enrich both the learning process for our students and the communities that ultimately will benefit from a larger pool of qualified teachers," said USC President Dr. Ronald Applbaum. The project will focus on ensuring teachers prepared to raise the achievement of their students. By recruiting high quality candidates and implementing a range of supports, including stipends and coaches, program administrators hope to retain and graduate participants who will become highly qualified teachers in partner schools. The University of Southern Colorado is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, USC is distinguished by access, opportunity and the overall quality of services provided to its students. |