"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
Last year, we presented an editorial criticizing the inconsistency of Charlotte-Mecklenburg student education.
We believe the school system still has a number of things to address, but along the way, we would like to recognize their efforts and accomplishments.
CMS and The New Teacher Project, or TNTP – a national non-profit organization – have partnered to seek out the best professionals nationwide who are not already in the teaching field.
They then offer these qualified individuals the opportunity to make a difference in their community by becoming teachers.
Locally, the program is called "TEACH Charlotte," and it's really making a difference.
TNTP was awarded a $20.8 Million federal grant to recruit talented new teacher candidates.
And it certifies only those teachers who demonstrate that they can help their students learn.
And, great news, people do want to get involved. In their first year, TEACH Charlotte received over 1,350 applications for 78 spots.
They can afford to be selective and draft only the most-qualified candidates.
TEACH Charlotte participants can currently be found in 39 schools across the county.
This year, the goal is to place more than 100 teachers in classrooms.
If you have a four-year degree – in the education field, or not – and want a make difference in a child's life through teaching, then this program may be for you.
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" – tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
