New EFSC Education Programs Lead to Classroom Careers

Eastern Florida State College is launching new education programs designed to address the high demand for teachers in Brevard County, including an Institute that provides an alternate path to teacher certification and a degree that prepares graduates to work as classroom teaching assistants.

The new Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) starts this Fall for individuals who hold a Bachelor's Degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in a field other than teaching who want to teach in a pre-kindergarten through grade 12 setting.

The state-approved, 24 credit EPI program provides the knowledge and skills needed to earn a Florida Professional Educator's Certificate.

“The demand for classroom teachers in Brevard County is very high, especially in the STEM fields of math and science,” said Dr. Linda Miedema, EFSC’s Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs and Chief Learning Officer.

“With the Space Coast being home to so many scientific and technical professionals, the Educator Preparation Institute provides a convenient opportunity to gain the certification needed to switch careers and make a difference as a teacher.”

The new Educational Technology Assistant Associate in Science Degree also starts Fall 2019, providing training to work as a classroom teaching assistant, instructional coordinator or substitute teacher.

The degree also offers supplemental training and potential career advancement opportunities for those currently employed in these occupations.

An associated Educational Assisting certificate program includes the common pre-requisite courses required for transfer into an associate or bachelor’s level education program and is also open to dual-enrolled high school students.

The new education programs include field experience in a Brevard Public Schools classroom.

“As more children have education plans that qualify them for one-to-one assistance, the demand for teaching assistants has multiplied exponentially,” said EFSC Education Professor and Program Manager Dr. Holly McKnight.

“We work closely with Brevard Public Schools to help meet their needs and we are excited to expand our options to prepare graduates for careers in the classroom.”

Meanwhile, the college is developing a Bachelor Degree in Science Education with a focus on STEM disciplines that it plans to launch in 2020.

To learn more about the new programs, including the application process, visit easternflorida.edu/go/education