Colonial School District partners with Westchester University to launch teaching pipeline program
May 13, 2025 | Colonial SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The Curriculum Committee of the Colonial School District convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss the ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing the declining interest in the teaching profession. The meeting highlighted the district's collaboration with Westchester University through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established in December 2022, which has led to the development of a program designed to encourage high school students to pursue careers in education.
The program, referred to as the "prize initiative," allows students in their junior and senior years at PW High School to take teaching courses at no cost. This initiative aims to familiarize students with teaching expectations and best practices while enabling them to earn college credits. Currently, seven students are participating in a summer program at Westchester University, with a total of 25 students having engaged with the prize pipeline since its inception.
Peggy Ben, a counselor at PW High School, provided insights into the program's structure and benefits. She noted that students can earn up to seven credits, with one credit available through a summer course. The program also emphasizes the importance of student engagement and support, as counselors work closely with students to navigate the challenges of college-level coursework.
The committee discussed the promotional efforts surrounding the initiative, including meetings with students and parents, as well as the establishment of a Future Educators Leader Association club. These efforts aim to raise awareness and encourage participation in the program.
A key point of discussion was the ongoing support provided to students throughout their educational journey. This support begins while students are still in high school and continues as they transition to Westchester University and eventually into their teaching careers within the Colonial School District. New teachers are assigned mentors to ensure they receive guidance and support throughout their early careers.
The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the initiative's growth and its potential to inspire more students to enter the teaching profession. The committee expressed optimism about expanding partnerships with other universities and continuing to foster a supportive environment for future educators.
The program, referred to as the "prize initiative," allows students in their junior and senior years at PW High School to take teaching courses at no cost. This initiative aims to familiarize students with teaching expectations and best practices while enabling them to earn college credits. Currently, seven students are participating in a summer program at Westchester University, with a total of 25 students having engaged with the prize pipeline since its inception.
Peggy Ben, a counselor at PW High School, provided insights into the program's structure and benefits. She noted that students can earn up to seven credits, with one credit available through a summer course. The program also emphasizes the importance of student engagement and support, as counselors work closely with students to navigate the challenges of college-level coursework.
The committee discussed the promotional efforts surrounding the initiative, including meetings with students and parents, as well as the establishment of a Future Educators Leader Association club. These efforts aim to raise awareness and encourage participation in the program.
A key point of discussion was the ongoing support provided to students throughout their educational journey. This support begins while students are still in high school and continues as they transition to Westchester University and eventually into their teaching careers within the Colonial School District. New teachers are assigned mentors to ensure they receive guidance and support throughout their early careers.
The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the initiative's growth and its potential to inspire more students to enter the teaching profession. The committee expressed optimism about expanding partnerships with other universities and continuing to foster a supportive environment for future educators.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting