UT Permian Basin, Midland College forge Education Pathway to address teacher shortage

UT Permian Basin (UTPB) and Midland College (MC) have collaborated to create Education Pathway to address the increasing demand for teachers in the region. The partnership, announced in a press release, was formalized with the signing of an agreement on May 7.

According to the Midland College website, the MC to UTPB Education Pathway facilitates a “clear and seamless” pathway for students from Midland College to UT Permian Basin, enabling them to earn their associate degree at MC and transfer to UTPB to pursue a Bachelor’s of Arts in Education.

"The demand for qualified teachers has never been greater in our region," said President of UT Permian Basin Dr. Sandra Woodley in the release. "The UTPB and MC Education Pathway allows us to meet students where they are and have a clear pathway from high school straight to their career. We are committed to graduating the next generation of educators who will inspire, innovate, and shape the future of education.”

The partnership offers benefits, including early and continuous advising, access to scholarships, and practical learning experiences through observation hours at Midland College’s Pre-K Academy and training site. The partnership will also serve as host sites for Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) meetings.

"We are dedicated to guiding these students every step of the way, regardless of where they begin their journey,” said Midland College President Dr. Damon Kennedy in the release. “We are fortunate to have a robust partnership between MC and UTPB. Together, we are working diligently to ensure a seamless transition from Midland College to UTPB's Texas Education Agency's approved Teacher Education Preparation Program.”