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SANFORD, N.C. — �ڰ������� (�ڰ�������) is leading a transformative initiative aimed at addressing the growing demand for elementary school teachers in central North Carolina. The college is now offering the Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certificate program in partnership with Chatham, Harnett, and Lee County Schools. It’s a pathway for people who hold bachelor’s degrees in subjects other than education who are currently working in classrooms to earn full teaching credentials.

Designed for individuals currently employed as elementary teachers without formal licensure, the program provides a flexible and supportive route to certification. It combines academic coursework with real-world teaching experience, allowing participants to continue working in their school roles while progressing toward state licensure.

“We are proud to partner with our three county school systems to provide a supportive pathway for dedicated professionals already serving in our elementary schools,” said Dr. Lisa M. Chapman, President of �ڰ�������. “It’s a win for our schools, our communities, and most importantly, for the students who benefit from qualified, committed teachers in their classrooms.”

Local Impact, Local Investment

The program has been welcomed by Lee County Schools, where the need for certified educators continues to grow.

“We are excited to continue our strong partnership with �ڰ������� through the launch of the Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certificate program,” said Superintendent Chris Dossenbach. “This initiative provides a valuable local pathway for aspiring educators to earn their teaching license while helping us grow and support our own teacher pipeline. We deeply value the ongoing collaboration between our organizations as we work together to make Lee County an even better place to learn, work, and thrive.”

Leaders in Harnett and Chatham counties echoed those sentiments. 

“We are so excited about this program and the opportunities it will afford for our staff,” said Monica J. Thompson, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Harnett County Schools. “We are thankful for our ongoing partnership with �ڰ�������.” 

Dr. Kelly Batten, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Chatham County Schools, said his district’s partnership with �ڰ������� through the Residency Licensure Program is vital to building a diverse, skilled, and sustainable teacher workforce. 

“This collaboration enables us to develop and retain talented individuals — many of whom already have strong ties to Chatham County — while ensuring they receive the professional preparation needed to meet the academic and social-emotional needs of our students,” Batten said. “Together, we are building instructional capacity and fostering long-term success for our schools and community.”

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

* Be a U.S. citizen or eligible for employment in the U.S.

* Hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA.

* Have 24 credit hours in the intended licensure area or pass required North Carolina exams.

* Submit a letter of employment or promise of placement from a local school district.

* Complete professional development as required by their school system.

A Community-Centered Approach to Teacher Development

As school districts across North Carolina face persistent teacher shortages, programs like this can help by developing educators locally and ensuring they’re equipped with pedagogical knowledge and classroom skills. 

�ڰ�������’s Residency Licensure Certificate Program is poised to make a lasting impact on the region’s teachers. 

“This program provides essential training and guidance to help them thrive in the classroom and strengthen our community's educational future,” said Ginger Harris Bartholomew, �ڰ�������’s Department Chair of Education Programs. 

For more information about the program or to apply, interested individuals should contact Ginger Harris Bartholomew at gharr082@cccc.edu or (919) 718-7260.