Tennessee’s need for teachers inspires Belmont to partner with community colleges

Belmont University is partnering with state community colleges to create a new pathway for aspiring teachers.

Students who earn their associate degree in elementary or middle school education can then continue in a four-year program at Belmont. University President Greg Jones and Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora W. Tydings signed the agreement during a ceremony on Belmont’s campus Monday.

University officials say that the new pathway can help with Tennessee’s urgent need for Pre-K-12 educators.

“Few professions shape a community’s future the way teaching does,” Jones said. “This partnership reflects Belmont’s commitment to preparing educators who bring both skill and heart to their work.”

The move is an expansion of Belmont’s partnership with the Tennessee Board of Regents, the college system of Tennessee. Last December, Belmont and TBR created a similar pathway for aspiring nurses.

The new teacher agreement lets students finish their first two years of study at one of Tennessee’s 13 community colleges before transferring to Belmont for a bachelor’s degree in education.

“Strong transfer pathways are one of the most effective ways we can expand educational opportunity,” said Dr. Jothany Reed, TBR vice chancellor for academic affairs. “These agreements give future teachers confidence that the work they complete at a community college will count toward a bachelor’s degree, saving students time and money while creating a more efficient pathway into Tennessee’s classrooms.”

To ensure a smooth transition to Belmont, the agreement includes coordinated advising, aligned coursework and transfer credit equivalencies. Students who complete their associate degree with the required academic standards and meet Belmont’s admission requirements will be eligible.