UNC Pembroke is expanding its reach into Asheboro with the recent signing of an agreement with Randolph Community College, making it easier for aspiring teachers to complete their four-year degrees.

To qualify, students must complete the required hours for the Associate of Arts in Teacher Education or Associate of Science in Teacher Education from Randolph Community College, transfer to UNCP and complete a major in the Educator Preparation Program (EPP).

Dr. Lisa Mitchell, associate dean of the School of Education, is excited to offer yet another pathway for community college transfers while increasing the statewide teacher pipeline.

“Supporting students as they transition from the community college to our Educator Preparation Program will strengthen our connection to the communities we serve, preparing more teachers for North Carolina's schools,” Mitchell noted.

The partnership with Randolph Community College is the latest example of collaboration between UNCP and local and regional two-year programs to address the educator shortage, particularly in rural communities. UNCP has signed similar agreements with Richmond, Montgomery, Robeson, Sandhills and Fayetteville Technical community colleges in the past six months.