NAU partners with West Valley schools to educate teachers

Northern Arizona University is celebrating a milestone this week as the first nine graduates of its West Valley Pathways to Teaching program receive their teaching certifications.

Launched in 2023, the program aims to address Arizona’s ongoing teacher shortage by providing a flexible and streamlined path to certification for educators already working in schools. The program, part of a "Grow Your Own" initiative, targets non-certified teachers and education support staff, including teaching assistants, who are already involved in their communities.

Participants in the program are given priority consideration for teaching positions within the participating school districts: Tolleson, Littleton, Union, Pendergast, Buckeye, and Saddle Mountain; it  also provides access to the Arizona Teachers Academy Scholarship, which helps cover tuition and fees for eligible students.

The program combines online graduate courses with in-person undergraduate classes, offered at district schools in the afternoons and evenings, to accommodate working educators. The inaugural cohort of 13 students began in Spring 2023, and enrollment grew to 60 students in Fall 2024. Graduates are awarded state-approved, nationally accredited degrees and enhanced teaching skills that will help address Arizona’s teacher shortages.

“NAU proudly champions Grow Your Own partnerships, strengthening the pipeline of certified educators dedicated to advancing educational equity,” stated Ramona Mellott, dean of NAU’s College of Education.

 Studies show that fully certified teachers with experience and specialized training lead to better student outcomes, including improved academic performance and behavior. Teachers with more qualifications tend to stay in their positions longer, improving retention rates.

Applications for the Fall 2025 cohort are open until June 15, 2025. Interested students can complete a digital interest form on NAU’s website to begin the application process.

Visit nau.edu for more information on the Arizona Teachers Academy Scholarship and the Pathways to Teaching program.