Designed for working professionals
Advance your career in education while continuing to serve your school and community. The Staff to Educator Program is designed specifically for paraprofessionals like you, offering a flexible, supportive pathway to becoming a certified elementary teacher in just two years.
Advance Your Career Faster
Complete your Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in just two years, allowing you to become a certified teacher sooner.
Affordable Education
Our program is structured to be cost-effective, utilizing your prior education and professional experience to maximize value.
Real-World Learning
Your school district partners closely with OKWU, giving you opportunities to complete field experiences, observations, and practicum hours during your regular workday.
Why Choose the Staff to Educator Program?
Transform your passion for teaching into a fulfilling career by joining our program. Participants will you’ll benefit from:
Work and Learn
Stay in your current role as a paraprofessional while earning your degree. Apply what you learn directly to your classroom every day.
Flexible Online Classes
Access tailored online courses designed to fit your busy schedule, allowing you to balance work, studies, and life seamlessly.
Cohort Community
Go through the program alongside a supportive group of peers who share your goals and ambitions.
Career Pathways
Earning your Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education opens doors to rewarding teaching opportunities across Oklahoma. Potential roles you could step into include:
- Elementary School Teacher
- Special Education Teacher
- Grade-Level Lead Teacher
Featured Core Classes
Reading Foundations & Processes
Learn the essential teaching strategies to nurture primary and intermediate literacy skills.
Engaging Diverse Learners
Strengthen your skills to create inclusive classrooms that support students from all backgrounds.
Managing the Learning Environment
Gain innovative tools for cultivating positive, structured, and engaging classrooms.
Your coursework blends online learning flexibility with valuable mentorship and hands-on practice.
FAQs
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Who is the STEP Program for?
The Staff to Educator Program is designed exclusively for full-time paraprofessionals or school staff working in Oklahoma elementary schools. High school graduates without paraprofessional experience are not eligible.
How is the coursework scheduled?
The program is structured to include one 16-week course and several 5-week courses each semester. This design helps balance your workload while working full-time.
Do I need college credits to apply?
Yes, applicants must have an earned Associate degree or completed general education core requirements with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
Can I complete practicum and field experience hours while on the job?
Yes! The program partners with your school district to allow you to fulfill practicum, observation, and fieldwork hours during your regular work hours.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program takes two years, with coursework provided over six semesters, including summers.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Ready to Begin?
Your classroom is waiting. Take advantage of this opportunity to grow your career, make a difference in your community, and achieve your teaching goals.
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