University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa City Schools to Help Pay for Teachers to Earn Master’s

The University of Alabama is partnering with Tuscaloosa City Schools to offer reduced tuition to those seeking to become leaders in local education.

In a Thursday announcement, TCS said they and UA will each pay one-third of the cost for eligible teachers to pursue advanced credentials - a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership or the Instructional Leadership Reduced Hour Option.

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That would leave the teachers responsible for only the final third - the estimated total cost for participants is approximately $4,900 for the master's degree program and $2,940 for the reduced-hour option.

"Our strongest future leaders are already serving students in our classrooms today," said Dr. Mike Daria, superintendent of the Tuscaloosa City Schools. "This partnership allows us to identify, develop and support talented educators who are committed to the Tuscaloosa City Schools and want to make an even greater impact through leadership. Investing in our teachers is one of the best investments we can make in the future of our district."

TCS said the program was launched for working educators who will be able to continue in their current roles while completing coursework centered on leadership development.

This builds an affordable pipeline for ambitious teachers to become qualified to serve as assistant principals or principals, or to seek district administrative roles.

To be eligible, the TCS employee must have at least three years of teaching experience, demonstrate leadership potential, prove a record of positive evaluations and recommendations, and commit to using the advanced education the earn within TCS.

If applications exceed available funding, candidates will be selected through a process conducted by the superintendent or designee, TCS said. City school educators who are interested in learning more can contact Dr. Benjamin White at bkwhite2@ua.edu.

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