Mount St. Marys University Grow Your Own (GYO) Teacher Candidate

The Grow Your Own (GYO) Teacher Candidate position is a unique career-advancement opportunity for dedicated, benefits-eligible FCPS IAs or

SEIAs seeking full teacher certification. Selected candidates will maintain their full-time support role duties while concurrently enrolled in a high-quality

teacher preparation program through Mount St. Mary's University in an Undergraduate/Bachelor's Degree Program.

Must be able to complete a full time internship for a semester.

• Elementary will be in Elementary grades 1-5.
• Elementary & Special Education will be with special education population.
• Elementary & ECE will be in ECE classroom.
• Elementary, ECE & Sped need to be in ECE/Special Education classroom or split time between both.

This model provides financial support, tailored academic pathways, and district mentorship to prepare candidates for seamless transition into lead

classroom teaching roles within Frederick County Public Schools upon completion

Please note: Applicants accepted into the program will be required to sign a letter of commitment, which includes teaching for FCPS for 3 years after completing the program.

Applicants who are accepted into the program will be provided an individualize coursework map to allow them to progress through the program on a part-time basis, with a deadline of June 30, 2030. The program varies based upon preference and pace and any credits that a student can potentially transfer into the program if they have had some college coursework or possess an associate's degree.

QUALIFICATIONS & ELIGIBILITY

• Current Employment: Must be a currently employed, full-time benefits-eligible Instructional Assistant or SEIA with Frederick County Public

  Schools.

• Performance Record: Demonstrated history of satisfactory or higher performance evaluations in current FCPS role.

• Educational Prerequisites:

  • A High School Diploma

• Endorsement: Reference from current building principal/administrator.