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WVU, Kanawha County Schools collaboration opens up degree options for teachers

The West Virginia University College of Applied Human Sciences is partnering with the Kanawha County Schools to address the critical need for literacy education in West Virginia.

The partnership establishes a reduced per-credit tuition rate for a select cohort of up to 25 education professionals from Kanawha County to pursue a master’s degree in literacy education.

"As part of our deep commitment to the land-grant mission of WVU, we are addressing head-on the current challenges for learners in West Virginia and the shortage in the educator workforce,” Autumn Cyprès, dean of the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences, said. “I am thankful to President Gee and the senior WVU administration for supporting our efforts to work with K-12 leaders, teachers, and professional support staff in Kanawha County to make a real difference in our state.”

The award-winning WVU literacy education program is a 30-credit hour program that is delivered online. In addition to earning a master’s degree, graduates will also be certified reading specialists.

With the reduced tuition rate, Kanawha County can fund tuition for the selected cohort. The eligibility and selection of the cohort will be determined by Kanawha County Schools.

“This opportunity provides educators with valuable opportunities for professional growth and equips them with the tools to address the urgent literacy needs within our communities,” said Tom Williams, superintendent of Kanawha County Schools. "We know that this opportunity will not only benefit teachers but will also improve outcomes for thousands of students."

The partnership comes after months of discussions and meetings in both Charleston and Morgantown between Dean Cyprès and Superintendent Williams.

“I am grateful for Tom’s eagerness to make a difference for the teachers and students in his county and for his trust in WVU to assist in those efforts,” said Cyprès. “I am so proud of our friendship and commitment to the profession.”

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