JET: Journey into Education and Teaching

What is JET?

JET is an accelerated bachelor's degree and teacher preparation program for Paraprofessionals who want to become teachers in the high need elementary schools of Fall River and New Bedford. JET offers them the opportunity to obtain Massachusetts licenses in Elementary Education AND Moderate Disabilities, an area with well-documented teacher shortages.

The Center for University, School and Community Partnerships (CUSP) at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (UMD) is partnering with Bristol Community College (BCC), Lesley University, and the Fall River and New Bedford public schools to provide this unique teacher preparation program. Paraprofessionals will obtain their Associates degree in Elementary Education from BCC and then through a Joint Admissions program transfer as a cohort to UMD, where they will earn their Bachelor's degree with a Liberal Arts major and meet the requirements for Elementary Education licensure. Lesley University faculty will provide the Special Education (SPED) licensure requirements in an integrated instructional module.

This accelerated undergraduate program will incorporate teacher licensure requirements and reduce post-baccalaureate coursework. JET participants will be able to apply for initial licensure in Elementary Education and Moderate Disabilities.

What Makes JET Unique?

• Accelerated academic and licensure program
• Cohort format
• Variety of course delivery methods-including on-line, blended, and weekends
• Customized academic support and advisement
• Continuing support and mentoring for new teachers
• Upon completion of the JET program, priority hiring consideration for teaching positions in elementary and special education in Fall River and New Bedford public schools
  

Stay tuned to this page for recruiting information!

Read the Umass Dartmouth press release about JET’s grant from the US department of Education.

UMASS Dartmouth's Journey into Education and Teaching (JET) program is an initiative funded by the United States Department of Education and is overseen by Project Director Karen O'Connor.

Contact Pamela Herrup, Program Director, at 774-929-3032 or pherrup@umassd.edu.

JET Home

JET application form (pdf)