Mount Partnering to Address Teacher Shortage

Ari Graham

Frederick County Public Schools was recently awarded a $1.9 million grant from the state of Maryland to address the ongoing issue of educator shortages throughout Maryland. Mount St. Mary’s has officially partnered with FCPS on this grant and will accept a total of 45 adult undergraduates seeking to train, certify, and graduate as elementary general and special-education teachers. 

Those seeking licensure through this program will take classes for three years, both online synchronous and asynchronous, with the course designed to support work-life balance as they pursue their education.

While the Mount wasn’t directly awarded the fund, the university, along with McDaniel College and Hood College, was selected as a higher education recipient to implement this program.

Dr. Stacey Brown-Hobbs, Dean of the Anthony F. and Alice G. Agone School of Education, stated, "The goal is to help fulfill areas where there may be critical shortage areas, special education being one of them." Brown-Hobbs hopes that moving forward, they will continue to analyze critical licensure areas where they might be able to help and support the job market in some way.

She also noted that they are thrilled to see the undergraduate renewal of excitement towards becoming educators, which has resulted in a "delightful dilemma" regarding doubling down on courses and offering more sections for those interested in the education field at the Mount.

As the newest faculty member specializing in special education, Dr. Amanda Carter brings expertise to the department. She will help guide the program and its operations to make sure everything aligns with the special education track. Her work will support future teachers and keep the curriculum focused on student success.

"Experienced educators bring the diagnostic insight necessary for immediate, effective early intervention, preventing learning hurdles from becoming permanent barriers for students," Carter remarked.

Gabriel Contreras (C’28) shared his excitement about the award, a feeling shared by his uncle, an FCPS educator. Coming from a family with ties to teaching, Contreras is eager to see how this grant will directly impact and support local teachers.