Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher Pathway

Welcome to the Department of Education and Teacher Preparation! We are excited to offer working paraprofessionals the opportunity to complete an initial teacher certification program while maintaining employment in schools. 

Why should I enroll in the Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher Pathway at Coastal Georgia?

The flexible Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher Pathway at Coastal Georgia leads to a Bachelor of Science in Education degree with dual majors in Elementary and Special Education. All courses are facilitated virtually with occasional evening or Saturday professional learning workshops. The pathway features extensive field-based learning and on-site mentoring from dedicated program faculty and school-based educators. Many Coastal Georgia graduates have been distinguished as Teacher of the Year in their respective schools or districts.

What will I learn?

The Elementary and Special Education program integrates a focus on child development and responsive pedagogy in literacy, mathematics, special education, and interdisciplinary teaching in grades PreK-5. Working in a dynamic cohort model, paraprofessionals advance through the program together. Talented faculty bring decades of successful experience and outstanding service in PreK-5 schools to teaching and working with our teacher candidates.

What can I do when I graduate?

Graduates are prepared to gain initial teacher certification from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission in PreK-5 Elementary and Special Education. This program, in partnership with surrounding school districts, prepares outstanding educators who can positively impact the academic and social-emotional growth of young learners. Graduates of this program are in high demand and poised to begin fulfilling careers as certified teachers and/or pursue advanced degrees.