WSU TRI-CITIES, KSD TEACHING BRIDGE PROGRAM SIGNS FIRST COHORT OF STUDENTS FOR CAREER-CONNECTED LEARNING PATHWAY

The Kennewick School District, in partnership with WSU Tri-Cities, proudly presents the first Teaching Bridge Cohort, consisting of seven accomplished seniors who have committed to attending WSU Tri-Cities to pursue their teaching degrees while concurrently working as substitute paraeducators for the district. This pioneering program, a first in Washington state, is the result of a collaborative initiative between the Kennewick School District and WSU Tri-Cities, providing high-school students with a career-connected pathway into the field of education.

The initial cohort of students in the program represents three Kennewick high schools. From Kennewick High School, we have Nerissa Grimm, Seth Keller, and Lizzandra Ramirez. Lilly Johanson, Haley Nelson, and Alvaro Rodriguez Jr. join us from Southridge High School, while Eva Arroyo hails from Kamiakin High School.

Teaching Bridge offers a career development pathway, bridging the gap between high school graduation and entry into the teacher preparation program at WSU Tri-Cities College of Education. Participants in the program will benefit from the following:

•    Comprehensive support throughout the college application and financial aid processes.
•    Early admission to WSU Tri-Cities.
•    Engaging in paid cooperative internships within local school districts.
•    Learning as part of a cohesive cohort.
•    Access to valuable mentorship opportunities.
•    Gaining a head start in their teaching careers.

Upon completing the two-year program, students will be prepared to apply for the WSU Tri-Cities Bachelor of Arts in Education program, fulfilling the requirements for Washington State certification in Elementary Education and adding endorsements in special education, English language learners, or bilingual Education.