Abilene Christian University is proud to announce a new collaboration with Education Service Center Region 11 to offer fully online degree programs and professional development pathways tailored for aspiring educators and teaching professionals in the Greater Fort Worth area. This partnership is designed to create innovative pathways for future teachers to earn their teaching certification and undergraduate degree, providing a solution to the pressing need for qualified educators in North Texas.
“We are committed to developing effective teaching pathways that address the critical need for skilled educators,” said Dr. Clyde Steelman, Jr., executive director of ESC Region 11. “This partnership with ACU is focused on cultivating the next generation of teachers who are grounded in both excellence and a strong vocational mission.”
The collaboration introduces four key pathways, each designed to meet the specific needs of high school students, paraprofessionals, current teachers and aspiring administrators:
Classroom to Career: This program connects motivated high school students with mentoring faculty members, allowing them to earn dual credit toward an associate’s degree. Upon graduation, students can enter their school’s talent pool as qualified teaching aides and gain guaranteed admission, with reduced tuition rates, into ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies program. This pathway sets students on a fast track to becoming fully licensed teachers in their home district within just two years after high school.
Level Up: Designed to enhance instructional quality at ESC Region 11 schools, this program offers current paraprofessionals the opportunity to earn their undergraduate degree and teaching certification. Participants will co-enroll in ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies program and ESC Region 11’s Educator Certificate Program, ensuring they are well-prepared to take on teaching roles within their district.
Advancing Teachers: As classrooms evolve, so does the need for educators who can meet the demands of diverse and technologically advanced environments. ACU’s online Master of Education in Instruction and Learning program equips current teachers with the skills needed to become master educators, enhancing both their teaching practice and their ability to lead within their schools. This program also prepares teachers to advance into administrative roles.
Doctor of Education Program for Leaders: ACU’s online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership programs are designed to empower ESC Region 11 teachers to excel in strategic leadership, organizational management, and community collaboration. These programs help administrators refine their talents and find deeper meaning in their work with students and staff.
“Through our partnership with ESC Region 11, we are aligning career goals with each individual’s strengths and aspirations,” said Jessica Manning, chief enrollment and partnerships officer for ACU’s Dallas campus. “Our tailored online programs offer unmatched opportunities for both aspiring and current educators to further their education and serve their districts more effectively. This partnership is just the beginning of how ACU is expanding its role from providing innovative online classes to becoming a strong advocate for educators across North Texas.”
ACU’s online programs are housed at its branch location in Dallas and include 14 bachelor’s, 17 master’s, four doctoral, five undergraduate certificates, and 10 graduate certificate programs. Learn more about ACU Online’s degree programs at acu.edu/online.