Released: July 30, 2025
Delaware County, PA — Delaware County Council is encouraging high school juniors to apply for the Future Educators Certificate of Competency Dual Enrollment Program at Delaware County Community College (DCCC), a free program that allows students to earn up to 38 college credits toward a teaching degree while still in high school.
The program—formerly known as the Teacher Education Program—has expanded due to high interest, with a limited number of additional seats now available for the upcoming academic year.
To accommodate students who may still be exploring their post-high school path, the application deadline has been extended to Sunday, August 3.
“We’re excited to see how popular this new program has become,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “We’ve heard from so many students who want to pursue a career in education, and the demand speaks for itself. Thanks to DCCC for expanding the number of seats for the 2025–2026 academic year—more students now have a valuable opportunity to jumpstart their degree and help strengthen our schools.”
The program was launched in 2023 after school superintendents in Delaware County raised concerns about the regional and statewide shortage of qualified teachers. Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, in partnership with the County’s Office of Workforce Development and local education leaders, worked to design a solution that would remove financial barriers for students and help build a pipeline of future educators.
Council unanimously approved funding for the program, covering tuition and materials for students who attend DCCC courses during their junior and senior years of high school.
The urgency of addressing the teacher shortage has only grown. According to a report from the Penn State Center for Evaluation and Education Policy Analysis, as reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer, Delaware County experienced a 10% teacher attrition rate between 2022 and 2023. During the 2023–2024 school year, the county had 99 teacher vacancies and required 519 emergency teaching permits—issued when schools cannot find fully certified applicants. The Center rated Delaware County’s teacher shortage level as “very high.”
“Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage is not a statistic—it’s a daily challenge in our schools,” said Delaware County Councilmember Christine Reuther. “That’s why it’s so important that we invest in the next generation of teachers who will lead, inspire, and shape a stronger Delaware County.”
The first students to complete the full 38-credit program did so this past spring, marking a major milestone in the County’s efforts to expand affordable pathways to careers in education. Credits earned through the program can be applied toward an associate degree at DCCC or transferred to select four-year institutions.
“Since welcoming its first cohort in 2023, the program has flourished, offering students a dynamic blend of theory and hands-on experience,” said Richard McFadden, Ph.D., DCCC’s Dean of Business, Computing and Social Science. “Under the guidance of dedicated faculty, like Jean Allison, associate professor and program coordinator of Early Childhood Education, students not only master essential teaching principles but also refine their practical skills in real-world settings.”
“This program is about building strong schools and strong communities,” said Council Vice Chair Richard Womack. “When we empower local students to become future educators—right here in Delaware County—we all benefit.”
“I want to thank Delaware County Community College and the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges for following through with our support by delivering results on a spectacular program,” said Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer. “This program gives students a meaningful head start by letting them earn real college credits while still in high school. It’s a powerful way to remove financial barriers and help more young people see a clear, achievable path into the teaching profession.”
“We talk a lot about investing in the future—and that’s exactly what this program does,” said Councilmember Kevin Madden. “It’s an investment in our students, in public education, and in the long-term strength of our communities. Giving students this kind of head start, without debt, is something we’re proud to support.”
Students interested in the program should email admiss@dccc.edu and include “Delaware County Future Teachers Certificate of Competency Dual Enrollment Program” in the subject line.
Additional information is available through DCCC’s Admissions Office by phone at (610) 359-5050.