WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — North Carolina schools are struggling to keep teachers.
According to EDNC.org, in North Carolina 11.5 % of teachers left the profession just last year.
Experts we spoke to says its difficult to find special education teachers. Here's how they plan to tackle that.
Winston-Salem State University currently offers a grant to its students giving them the opportunity to get a Master of Teaching degree for free.
It's called the RAMSES scholarship and it's an 18 month residency giving students the told to be a special education teacher.
"We developed a program called RAMSES and RAMSES is an apprenticeship program and one of the goal is to get more special education teachers into the classroom," said Dr. Cynthia Williams-Brown, Director of the Teacher Residency Program at WSSU.
A special education teacher preparation grant funded by the Office of Special Education Programs (US Department of Education) and National Center of Teacher Residency (NCTR). Scholars in the program will complete a Master of Teaching (MAT) from Winston-Salem State University and be recommended for licensure as a NC Special Education teacher.
RAMSES Scholars
- Will receive a range of benefits designed to support their academic and professional growth, including: - A stipend to assist with educational expenses -
- Membership in the Council of Exceptional Children, with travel opportunities to the state conference
- Access to an online program with small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention
- A full-year apprenticeship in the classroom, providing invaluable real-world experience
- Friday on-campus seminars and diversity training to enhance cultural competency
RAMSES is a Special Education Teacher Preparation Grant funded by the Office of Special Education Programs (US Department of Education) in partnership with Winston-Salem State University. The program aims to prepare highly effective special education teachers through a comprehensive pathway combining academic coursework and practical experience.
"The RAMSES program offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities," said April Whitehurst "Through a combination of academic excellence and practical experience, RAMSES scholars will be prepared to meet the diverse needs of students and contribute positively to their communities."
Program Eligibility
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.75
- Be committed to fulfilling a service obligation following completion of the program, by working as a special education teacher with students with disabilities for two years for every year of funding received
Applications for the RAMSES Apprenticeship Program are now open. For more information, click or tap HERE.