Teaching has a profound impact on students’ lives and the broader community. Teachers inspire, motivate, and guide students inside and outside the classroom. Witnessing students achieve their goals and overcome challenges is deeply rewarding.

Despite teachers’ undeniable importance, Pennsylvania faces a significant challenge due to a decrease in newly certified educators. This situation underscores the critical role of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) universities in cultivating future teachers. By inspiring new talent, we can ensure every classroom is staffed with dedicated professionals ready to empower the next generation.

As an assistant professor of early childhood education and Chair of the Department of Business, Education, and Professional Studies at Cheyney University, I am committed to preparing future educators. My goal is to equip them with the skills and comprehensive understanding necessary to meet the cultural and social-emotional needs of our diverse learners. Our program is designed to support students in pursuing relevant certifications that enhance their professional readiness.

One way Cheyney University achieves this mission is through the Paraprofessional Pathways Program. This initiative supports individuals currently serving in roles such as teacher assistants, classroom aides, and paraeducators—those who work alongside certified teachers and aspire to advance their careers in education. The program is specifically designed for those seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree and pursue teacher certification. What sets it apart is its acknowledgment of paraprofessionals’ lived experiences and meaningful contributions to the field, while offering a flexible and accessible path to certification in Early Childhood Education (Pre-K–4) or Early Childhood Special Education (Pre-K–8).

The program offers virtual information sessions, distance education, an integrated curriculum, and field experiences to accommodate adult learners balancing work, family, and school responsibilities. It aims to make it easier for working professionals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to become certified teachers. The program also emphasizes dual certification in early childhood and special education, addressing essential workforce needs and ensuring graduates are prepared to support diverse classrooms from day one.

More than 20 students have completed and graduated from the Paraprofessional Pathways Program. Many are now teaching in Pennsylvania—particularly in the Philadelphia region—in general and special education roles. Others have continued their studies in graduate programs or taken leadership positions in early learning centers.

As the nation’s first HBCU and a proud member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, Cheyney has a moral and educational imperative to help close Pennsylvania’s workforce gaps—especially in high-demand fields like education. PASSHE institutions have deep roots in their communities and a mission to expand access to higher education. We uplift individuals and strengthen schools, families, and communities across the commonwealth by equipping students with degrees that lead directly to employment—particularly in public service.

Cheyney is dedicated to more than just preparing teachers; we are developing change agents. Our programs emphasize justice, inclusiveness, and excellence. We are committed to developing educators who will inspire, advocate, and lead with compassion. Whether through traditional degree programs or specific initiatives like the Paraprofessional Pathways Program, Cheyney continues its legacy of empowering future educators who can face today’s classroom challenges and transform the future of education.