NEWS RELEASE

Contact: David West (west@nsula.edu )
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466

11/12/2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATCHITOCHES- Northwestern State University is looking for a few good people who want to be teachers. A new initiative, NSU PREP (Preparing Responsive Educators Program), has been developed to recruit, select, train and certify teachers for classrooms in an 11-parish area in north and central Louisiana.

Under the program, persons can gain teacher certification in an accelerated format. NSU PREP will begin in June 2004. Those interested can find out more about the program at an informational seminar to be held Dec. 9. The site and time will be announced.

According to NSU Prep Enrollment Coordinator April Matt, requirements include a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university by May 31, 2004 and a minimum grade point average of 2.5. Those who want to enroll in NSU PREP must also pass the Praxis I reading, writing and mathematics test and the Praxis II Subject Area test. They must also submit an application for enrollment in PREP, a resume and application for admission to NSU's Graduate School. Three official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended are also required.

"NSU PREP is looking for people who have no background in the field of education but have a desire to become a teacher," said Matt. "This program will give people the training they need to step into a classroom and begin making a difference in the lives of young people and in their community."

People from all professions or area of study are ideal for NSU PREP, especially those who have excelled as students or in their previous careers and are looking for opportunities to teach.

"Achievers who have the flexibility and initiative to adapt to a new environment and who are excited by challenges and the opportunity to teach where there talents are most needed are also the kind of people we are looking for," said Matt. "Those who also see the issues facing education in Louisiana, recognize the need for teachers and are looking for a way to do something about it are also encouraged to enroll."

Northwestern's College of Education has been working on PREP for the past three years. The university recently received a National Teacher's Program grant from the Louisiana Board of Regents to expand its reach.

The university is looking to place teachers, especially those in mathematics, science and special education, in school systems in Catahoula, Concordia, DeSoto, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, Vernon and Winn parishes.

"The program has been well received by each school system we have talked with," said Matt. "They are enthusiastic about having those who complete NSU PREP begin working in the classroom."

For more information, contact Matt at (318) 357-6014 or at matta@nsula.edu.

Main Menu