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Teacher Preparation Program

Earn while you learn! Lamar State College Orange and Sam Houston State University are partnering with TSUS Polk County Center to provide a pathway for educational aides to become teachers. This initiative allows paraprofessionals to continue their valuable work in schools while studying to earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching from LSCO. Students then have the option for a seamless transfer to SHSU of up to 60 credit hours to continue their education with a bachelor's degree.

woman teaching in a classroom

Key Program Features

  • Earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching in as little as 24 months
  • Continue working as a paraprofessional while studying
  • Receive guidance for university transfer to complete a bachelor's degree, including a seamless transfer of up to 60 credit hours to SHSU
  • Access to dedicated academic advisors and support service

Cohort Structure

  • 12 credit hours per semester (Fall/Spring)
  • Classes meet Tuesday and Wednesday evenings

How the Program Works

Step 1: Associate of Arts in Teaching

Paraprofessionals will earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching through LSCO at TSUS Polk County Center while still continuing to work at local schools.

Step 2: Bachelor's Degree

Graduates may transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor's degree of their choice. LSCO has partnered with SHSU for a seamless transition and transfer acceptance of up to 60 credit hours towards a degree program. 

Step 3: Teacher Certification

Along with a bachelor's degree, graduates may earn a teacher certification through their four-year university or an alternative certification course.

Step 4: Become a Teacher

Graduates may use their new degrees to become a Texas certified teacher in their school district.

Program Details

  1. Sign in or create an account at Apply Texas.
  2. Choose Lamar State College Orange from the school selection tool.
  3. Select the Associate of Arts in Teaching major under Polk County Center.
  4. Submit the application and get ready for classes to begin.
  • $1,416 - $1,575 per semester for non-dual credit students
  • Eligible paraprofessionals may have tuition waived through Educational Aide Exemption and only be responsible for paying fees
  • Additional course materials and textbooks may be required
  • FAFSA application support
  • Scholarship opportunities

Qualified educational aides may be eligible for tuition exemption through this special program designed to support the development of future teachers.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Texas residency
  • Current employment in a Texas public school district
  • One year of experience as an Educational Aide in the past five years, OR 180 days of substitute teaching
  • Demonstrated financial need
  • Enrollment in teacher certification courses for critical shortage areas
  • Maintenance of satisfactory academic progress