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Lone Star College Announces New Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

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Lone Star College System is set to introduce a new Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Teaching, supported by a grant of $200,000 from the Houston Endowment. This initiative was announced in a news release on August 13, 2023, and aims to address the growing need for certified teachers in Texas.

The funding will primarily cover consulting services and curriculum development for the new degree program. It will focus on preparing educators for teaching early childhood through grade six. The program is expected to launch in fall 2026, with the initial cohort projected to include 150 students, pending approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Addressing Teacher Shortages

In the 2024-25 school year, it was reported that approximately 12% of teachers in Texas were uncertified, a significant increase from 3.8% in the 2019-20 school year. Seelpa Keshvala, the executive vice chancellor for academics at Lone Star College, emphasized the institution’s commitment to equipping future educators with essential training and expertise. Keshvala stated, “Lone Star College System is committed to equipping future educators with the training and expertise needed to thrive in the classroom. We’ll continue to work closely with our local school districts in these efforts.”

This new degree will mark Lone Star College’s fifth bachelor’s program, joining existing offerings in fields such as cybersecurity, emergency management, energy and trades management, and nursing.

Community Impact and Support

Nicole Robinson Gauthier, executive director of the Lone Star College Foundation, expressed optimism regarding the program’s potential impact. She remarked, “Education is the foundation for future success. We are eager to see this expand opportunities for aspiring teachers who will encourage and empower the next generation.”

Moreover, August Hamilton, education program director for Houston Endowment, noted the critical need for well-prepared teachers. He declared, “Every child deserves a well-prepared teacher, and that starts with strong, affordable pathways into the profession. Lone Star College System’s new bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is a smart, timely response to our region’s certified teacher shortage.” Hamilton further highlighted that the program aims to align with workforce needs and support future educators on their journey to certification, ultimately ensuring that more children in Greater Houston have access to skilled teachers.

The introduction of this degree program represents a significant step forward for Lone Star College in its mission to enhance educational opportunities and address teacher shortages in the region. As preparations continue for the program’s launch, the college remains focused on its goal of fostering a well-trained workforce for early childhood education.

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