Manatee School District Launches Para-to-Pro Program Offering Free Degrees and Path to Teaching Careers
The School District of Manatee County is launching a new workforce development initiative designed to help paraprofessionals become certified teachers while addressing ongoing educator shortages.
The new Para-to-Pro program will provide selected district paraprofessionals with the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree at no cost while continuing to work and receive a paycheck. Upon becoming licensed educators, participants could see their annual salaries increase from approximately $30,000 to nearly $60,000.
District officials say the initiative is designed to strengthen the local educator pipeline by investing in employees who are already serving students in Manatee County classrooms. With approximately 50 teacher vacancies and educator shortages continuing nationwide, the program aims to recruit from within rather than relying solely on outside hires.
The program is funded entirely through a grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation, meaning no taxpayer dollars will be used to cover tuition or program expenses.
Applications are expected to open in late August, with five to 10 participants selected for the inaugural class. Those accepted will complete their bachelor’s degrees online through either Barry University or Lake Erie College while gaining valuable classroom experience as district employees.
To qualify, applicants must be current Manatee County School District paraprofessionals, hold an associate’s degree, and receive a recommendation from their school principal.
Participants who complete the program will be required to remain employed with the School District of Manatee County for at least three years after earning their teaching degree.
The district currently employs more than 700 paraprofessionals, with additional positions available, and officials anticipate expanding the Para-to-Pro program in future years as funding and demand allow.
Paraprofessionals interested in learning more about the program can contact the School District of Manatee County Human Resources Department by calling (941) 708-8770 and selecting extension 41208.