The board approved a Purple Pathways contract with the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) College of Education July 21 to provide an educator development pathway for paraeducators.

Board member comments described the agreement as a “grow‑our‑own” strategy to expand the local pipeline of certified teachers and paraeducators. Administration said the initiative will provide professional learning and pathways for paraeducators to advance and obtain additional credentials.

Vote: The contract passed unanimously.

Ending: The administration will proceed with implementation and coordination with UNI; the board congratulated staff for advancing the program as a local talent strategy.