As school districts across Pennsylvania continue to face teacher shortages, West Chester University is investing in a solution that starts long before graduation.
On Thursday, June 25, 13 incoming Education majors publicly committed to becoming future Educators through West Chester University’s Partnering in Raising Inclusive, Zealous Educators (PRIZE) Program, signing declarations that mark the beginning of a journey back to the classrooms and communities that inspired them.
The Signing Day ceremony, held at the West Chester University Foundation, celebrates more than a milestone; it showcases WCU’s innovative “grow-your-own” approach to addressing the Educator shortage by identifying aspiring teachers early, supporting them throughout college, and preparing them to return to partner school districts after graduation.
Building the Next Generation of Teachers
The PRIZE Program was created to help school districts develop and retain exceptional Educators by cultivating future teachers from within their own communities.
Students who participate in the program commit to earning their Education degrees at West Chester University before returning to teach in PRIZE partner school districts.
During the ceremony, each high school senior will sign a pledge affirming their commitment to creating inclusive classrooms, empowering students, celebrating diversity, and making a lasting impact through education.
Their pledge concludes with a powerful declaration: “I am the prize!”
Inspiring Tomorrow’s Educators Today
Also attending the event will be 13 rising high school seniors currently participating in the PRIZE Summer Teacher Academy, a weeklong residential experience designed to introduce students to the teaching profession while earning college credit in Educational Technology.
The academy gives aspiring Educators an early look at college life and the classroom experience while pairing them with current West Chester University Education majors who serve as mentors throughout the week.
One of those mentors, Faith Bullen, a current WCU Education major, PRIZE Ambassador, and member of the inaugural 2023 Summer Teacher Academy cohort, will share how the program helped shape her own path toward becoming an Educator.
A Growing Network of School District Partners
High school students interested in teaching can join the PRIZE Program through dual enrollment opportunities offered during their senior year. Admissions for the 2026-27 academic year are currently being accepted on a rolling basis.
The program now partners with 13 Pennsylvania school districts and charter schools:
- Avon Grove School District
- Chichester School District
- Chester-Upland School District
- Coatesville Area School District
- Colonial School District
- Commonwealth Charter Academy
- Kennett Consolidated School District
- New Hope-Solebury School District
- Oxford Area School District
- Rose Tree Media School District
- School District of Philadelphia
- Southeast Delco School District
- Susquehanna Township School District
A Community Investment in Education
Created in January 2023 by Dr. Desha Williams, Dean of West Chester University’s College of Education & Social Work, the PRIZE Program has quickly grown through the support of Educators, Donors, and Community Partners committed to strengthening the Teacher workforce.
The program is supported by generous philanthropic contributions from Lance Bogash ’74, retired Southeast Delco School District Educator; the late Dr. Judith Finkel ’73; Chester Community Charter School; the Justamere Foundation; Rob Dash, Esq., and Debbie Dash; and other supporters.
Program leadership includes Dr. Daris McInnis, Dr. Diane Santori, and Dr. Brittany Severino on the Board of Directors, with Dr. Tiffany Bennett and Dr. Christian Penny serving as Co-Directors of the Summer Teacher Academy.
Preparing Educators Who Return Home to Serve
By connecting aspiring teachers with mentorship, classroom experiences, and long-term partnerships with local school districts, West Chester University’s PRIZE Program is creating a sustainable pathway that benefits students, schools, and communities across Pennsylvania.
Whether you’re a high school student considering a career in Education, a school district looking to strengthen your future workforce, or a community member passionate about supporting the next generation of teachers, WCU’s PRIZE Program offers a powerful model for building the Educator pipeline from within.
Keep Your Eyes on the PRIZE
West Chester University’s PRIZE Program is helping strengthen the teacher pipeline by preparing future educators through partnerships, mentorship, dual-enrollment opportunities, and hands-on pathways into the teaching profession.
Learn more about the PRIZE Program, participating school districts, the Summer Teacher Academy, and opportunities to apply, partner, support, or get involved.
Learn More About PRIZE
