Asheboro City Schools announced on March 10 that it will honor the first three graduates of its TEACH Program at a ceremony scheduled for April 21. The event will take place from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the Asheboro City Schools Professional Development Center inside the Global Innovation Center in Asheboro.
The TEACH Program, which stands for Tomorrow’s Educators: Advancement to College through High School, is a teacher preparation pathway developed by Asheboro City Schools in partnership with Randolph Community College and the Institute for Partnerships in Education at UNC Greensboro. The program aims to create a sustainable pipeline for high school students interested in pursuing careers as educators.
Over the past three years, TEACH has provided participants with dual-enrollment coursework, advising, and early field-based learning experiences. Students have had opportunities to earn college credit while exploring teaching as a profession and building connections between high school, community college, and university pathways.
Dr. Wendy Rich, Chief Academic Officer/Assistant Superintendent for Asheboro City Schools, said, “This program reflects the power of partnership and long-term vision. By aligning high school, community college, and university systems, we are creating a clear, supportive pathway for students who want to return to our classrooms as teachers.”
Randolph Community College President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said, “The TEACH Program demonstrates what is possible when high schools, community colleges, and universities work together to create a seamless pathway for students. Through this collaboration, students can begin their college education early, stay aligned with university transfer requirements, and move forward with a clear and supported route into the teaching profession. At RCC, where Access leads to Success, we are proud to partner in building structured opportunities that guide students from the classroom to a career.”
The program has served seven participants over two years and now celebrates its first group of graduates. Ongoing scholarship investments and shared commitments among partners are expected to help sustain and expand the initiative within the local community.
