ACU and Celina ISD Partner to Upskill Instructional Aides into Credentialed Teachers with Innovative “Level Up” Program

Abilene Christian University (ACU) is excited to announce a new partnership with Celina Independent School District (ISD) to offer fully online degree programs and professional development pathways for aspiring educators and teaching professionals in the Celina area.

This innovative partnership is designed to provide instructional aides, who currently hold associate degrees, with the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree and obtain teaching certification. ACU’s Level Up pathway will help Celina ISD grow its pool of paraprofessionals into credentialed teachers who can lead their own classrooms.

“Celina ISD is excited to partner with ACU to upskill our current instructional aides, growing them into credentialed teachers who will make a significant impact on the students in our classrooms,” said Dr. Tom Maglisceau, superintendent of schools for Celina ISD.

The partnership offers a distinct Level Up pathway dedicated to improving the quality of instruction at Celina ISD schools. This program provides existing paraprofessionals the opportunity to earn their undergraduate degree and teaching certification through co-enrollment in ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies program and in Region 10 Education Service Center’s Educator Certificate Program.

“Through our innovative partnership with Celina ISD, we are connecting career goals with each individual’s current strengths and aspirations,” said Jessica Manning, chief enrollment and partnerships officer for ACU’s Dallas campus. “Our Level Up program provides unparalleled opportunity for instructional aides to further their education to serve their district better.” 

ACU’s online programs are administered through its branch location in Dallas and include 14 bachelor’s degrees, 16 master’s degrees, three doctoral degrees, five undergraduate certificate programs, and ten graduate certificate programs. For more about Celina ISD programs offered through ACU Online, visit acu.edu/celinaisd.