Western Governors University, Canyons District join to combat teacher shortages

SALT LAKE CITY — As teacher shortages continue not only in Utah but around the nation, Western Governors University and the Canyons School District are teaming up in hopes to do something about it. 

Canyons School District says the partnership hopes to attract more students to go into the teaching profession. And it will be a natural fit when it comes to placing the best teachers at the head of the classroom.

“Our mission is to provide young learners the best instruction, support, and experiences possible,” said Canyons Superintendent Dr. Rick Robins. “Not only does our partnership with WGU help ensure a steady pipeline of highly qualified teachers, it reinforces our commitment to the professional development of the outstanding individuals currently working in our district.”

Western Governors University, an online nonprofit university, has amassed $50,000 in scholarship funds that include benefits. The funds also include fee waivers and exclusive scholarship opportunities going to all district employees.

According to a joint statement released this week, the agreement would establish the Pathway to Teaching Scholarship. The $5,000 scholarship would award up to 10 district employees, applicable to any WGU teacher licensing program.

Canyons School District employees can apply for a scholarship that would help lower financial burdens from obtaining university degrees. And reward current teachers for the good work and commitment to education students.“Like the teachers and educational support staff who serve the students of Canyons School District, WGU’s purpose is to improve through the power of education,” said Melissa Jensen, strategic partnerships manager for WGU.

Jensen says the time is now to reach out to mid-career adults with incentives. Those incentives include low-cost, high-quality degree programs that better fit with today’s adult professionals.