(Rockville, MD)R014Montgomery College invites high schools seniors who are interested in entering the teaching field to apply to “Growing Teachers,” a new associate of arts in teaching (A.A.T.) transfer program to begin in January at the College’s Rockville Campus.

This new degree option is designed for students who want to become certified teachers. The A.A.T. degree curriculum provides the first two years towards a bachelor’s degree in teacher education and teacher certification, and requires a 2.75 grade point average.

Maryland is the first state in the nation to ensure that students in A.A.T. programs can transfer to any public or private four-year institution in the state without loss of credit. Through Montgomery College's program, students will begin their teacher preparation college studies at a fraction of the cost of most colleges and universities. At the conclusion of their two years, they may wish to transfer to one of Montgomery College’s partner universities, which include the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and Towson University. Students may be able to complete their studies in Montgomery County, through the Universities at Shady Grove.

Montgomery College, Maryland's oldest and largest community college, offers program participants two sources of financial aid to help pay tuition and fees. High school students may apply for a Maryland State Dual Enrollment Grant, which covers the cost of one three-credit college course per semester and is available for both the spring and first summer semester in 2002. Once students enroll full-time in a teacher education program, they may apply for a Maryland Teacher Scholarship, worth $2,000 per year at Montgomery College and $5,000 per year for juniors and seniors at Maryland universities and colleges.

High school seniors participating in this program can enroll in two college courses during Montgomery College’s 2002 spring semester, which begins January 22.

Applications for the first class of the "Growing Teachers" program are due January 1. For more information or to receive an application packet, call the Montgomery College Education Department at 240-567-1757. For financial aid information, contact the Montgomery College Financial Aid Office at 240-567-5100.