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AHOSKIE – During Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC)’s priority registration that started earlier this semester, the college is highlighting teacher preparation programs including the Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation (AATP) and the Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation (ASTP). Both programs were introduced Fall 2023 and prepare students for careers as teachers in elementary, middle and high schools.

While enrolled in these associate degree programs, students can take the first two years of college classes at a local community college before transferring to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree in education.

The AATP program focuses on students interested in teaching English/language arts, social studies, art, history, special education or related subjects and who are pursuing teacher licensure for elementary (grades K-6), middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12). Students also complete four education courses, which help them gain insight and understanding of the K-12 classroom and prepare them to take the Praxis teacher certification exam.

The ASTP in teacher prep program focuses on students interested in teaching science, math, technology, engineering or related subjects and who are pursuing teacher licensure for middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12). Students enrolled in the AS program complete four education courses, which helps them better understand the K-12 classroom and prepares them to take the Praxis teacher certification exam.

“The AATP and the ASTP are two great programs. I started out as a high school math educator 10 years ago. I gained the basis of what was then the start of my educational career in the classroom. These two programs have significant potential to greatly benefit future educators, the local community and the educational workforce as a whole,” said R-CCC Dean of College Transfer & Health Sciences Michael Jefferson Jr.

The North Carolina Community College System and the University of North Carolina System along with some NC private/independent colleges and universities have agreements in place and qualifying graduates of the R-CCC teacher preparation programs may be able to transfer to participating North Carolina four-year institutions as a junior. Students must obtain a grade of “C” or better in each course and maintain an overall grade point average of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale.

“R-CCC is proud to offer pathways for aspiring educators through our teacher preparation programs, said Dr. Murray J. Williams, president of the college. “These programs empower students to lay the foundation for fulfilling careers in education, whether in elementary, middle or high schools. By partnering with universities across North Carolina, we ensure a seamless transition to a four-year degree, equipping our students to make a lasting impact in classrooms across our state. I encourage all prospective educators to take advantage of these opportunities and join us in shaping the next generation of leaders.”

Registration is underway for the Spring and Summer 2025 semesters. For more information about program options, visit roanokechowan.edu or call 252-862-1200.