Pasco County Schools Program Supports Employees in Becoming Teachers
Pasco County Schools has implemented the 'Teach Pasco Paid Pathway' program to assist non-instructional employees in becoming certified teachers. Cassie Reed, an instructional assistant at Pine View Elementary in Land O’ Lakes, Florida, is one such employee benefiting from this initiative. After years of working with special needs students, Reed was encouraged by her principal to pursue teaching. The program provides financial assistance for eligible employees pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education, covering up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year for eligible courses and documented prerequisites, and also reimbursing for required books. A crucial aspect of the program for Reed has been the ability to continue receiving pay and benefits during her final teaching internship, which she is currently completing. This financial support is vital for employees who might otherwise be unable to afford to leave their jobs to complete their degrees. 
