By MorinvilleNews.com Staff

Edmonton – A new pilot program will provide a doorway through which skilled individuals can gain teaching qualifications so they can share their expertise with Alberta’s youth.

The province’s new Career and Technology Studies (CTS) Bridge to Teacher Certification Program starts this month and will allow program participants to work in Alberta’s classrooms while completing a teacher-preparation program offered by Alberta post-secondary institutions.

Participants, whom are selected by school authorities, must be required to instruct a specific CTS program. Once a 14-week practicum and all course work is completed, participants will receive a Letter of Authority allowing them to teach CTS courses in their area of specialization while continuing to work toward completing a Bachelor of Education degree.

“This allows more students to explore a variety of career options with expert guidance and meets the demands of our ever-growing and changing education system,” said Alberta’s Minister of Education Dave Hancock in a release on the program.

Carol Henderson, president of the Alberta Teachers’ Association said there is a pressing need in Alberta to recruit people with technical qualifications to work in CTS classrooms. Henderson said her association was pleased to assist in planning and developing the new program.

The province is investing $1.4 million into the program, monies that will subsidize participants’ salaries and sponsor schools’ costs for providing a mentor to guide new teachers.
Information about the bridging program is available at www.education.alberta.ca/admin/workforce.aspx.