Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 is expanding access to the teaching profession through a series of new initiatives aimed at addressing the ongoing shortage of certified special education teachers across the region.
The IU 29 has been awarded a $100,000 Paraeducator Advancement Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and is one of just 12 intermediate units statewide selected to receive the funding.
The initiative focuses on creating multiple pathways into teaching for individuals at different stages of their careers, including current school employees and those seeking certification.
“This is about options,” said Dr. Anthony Serafini, Executive Director of IU 29. “Every current or future educator has a unique path, and different programs will work better for different individuals.”
One key component is the Paraeducator Advancement Program, which allows eligible paraeducators with an associate degree to complete approximately 60 credits toward a bachelor’s degree and obtain PK-12 special education certification at no cost while continuing to work full-time.
The program uses a job-embedded model that blends coursework with real classroom experience. Participants work alongside mentor teachers, receive instructional coaching, and gain hands-on experience to prepare them to lead their own classrooms.
Additional support is also provided to help participants complete certification requirements, including Praxis exam preparation and assistance navigating the Pennsylvania Teacher Information Management System (TIMS).
IU 29 is also partnering with Penn State Harrisburg through the Commonwealth’s Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification. This pathway offers individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree an expedited route to certification with reduced tuition costs.
In another effort, IU 29 is collaborating with Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit to leverage Pennsylvania’s Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program, providing a paid, “earn-as-you-learn” pathway that combines on-the-job experience with coursework and mentorship.
Officials say the combination of state grants, financial aid, apprenticeship funding, and local partnerships significantly reduces — and in some cases eliminates — the cost of becoming a teacher.
“These opportunities are designed for different groups of aspiring educators, but together they create a clear and flexible system for entering the profession,” the release states.
The expanded approach is expected to help school districts across Schuylkill County grow their own workforce and address staffing shortages with minimal financial impact.
“Teacher certification can be confusing, and that’s where we come in,” Serafini added. “We’re here to guide and support local educators who just need a little direction as they take the next step in their careers.”
Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 provides educational services, professional development, and specialized programs to support students, educators, and school districts throughout Schuylkill County.