CHAMBERSBURG – Wilson College has announced it will receive a $600,000 education grant through a statewide initiative aimed at addressing Pennsylvania’s critical teacher shortage. As part of a major investment by Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration, this funding will expand Wilson’s efforts to provide special education degrees and certifications for working paraprofessionals in Adams, Franklin and York counties – enabling them to advance their careers while continuing their employment.
“The shortage in teachers receiving special education certifications is significantly higher than those receiving general teacher certifications,” said Wilson College President Wesley R. Fugate. “We aim to shrink that deficit by offering more opportunities for individuals who have the passion and heart to educate one of our most vulnerable populations.”
With the awarding of this grant, Wilson College will continue its long-standing commitment to teacher education by directly serving the needs of local school districts.
“Wilson College is honored to partner with the Chambersburg Area School District and the Lincoln Intermediate Unit to provide an opportunity for paraprofessionals to earn their bachelor’s degree in special education and certification. Our goal is to offer a strong mentorship and academic path during their time in the classroom, as well as professional development. I am thankful to the Governor for providing funds that will assist in the teacher shortage and ultimately provide all students with well-prepared educators,” said Lynn Newman, Wilson’s director of education and associate professor of education.
The funding is part of a broader $7.76 million allocation being provided through the Commonwealth’s Supporting Certified Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Programs, that will allow aspiring educators, paraprofessionals and emergency-certified teachers to earn full teacher certification while working in schools. This initiative is fully funded through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which permits states to allocate a portion of their federal allotment for statewide priorities.
