The Muscogee County School District and Columbus State University announced a new initiative within their partnership.  All CSU College of Education graduates, who meet the necessary requirements, will be guaranteed a teaching contract with MCSD. The “CSU Teaching Contract Guarantee,” will become effective immediately.

“Columbus State University and the Muscogee County School District have enjoyed a long and enduring symbiotic relationship. In light of our ongoing and growing partnership, we wanted to express our confidence in the graduates they produce through this tangible gesture, which we believe to be mutually beneficial for both institutions. In doing so, we hope to promote the development and retention of local teaching talent as well as attracting potential talent to our community,” said Dr. David Lewis, MCSD Superintendent of Education.

CSU has proven to be the largest educational resource of teachers to MCSD; more than 70% of District educators hold one or more degree from the institution. This partnership will provide a unique opportunity to develop new and innovative ways of attracting candidates to the public education field.

Under the new program, all graduates from CSU’s teacher education program will be guaranteed a teaching contract within MCSD, contingent upon the following conditions:

- Candidates successfully pass the student teaching component of his/her degree.

- Candidates meet Georgia Professional Standards Commission induction certification requirements.

“We are honored that Muscogee County School District believes so strongly in CSU’s teacher education program that they are willing to guarantee virtually all of our education students jobs upon graduation,” said Dr. Chris Markwood, CSU President. “CSU prides itself on preparing tomorrow’s teachers for the classroom, and we are thrilled to see that MCSD recognizes CSU’s longstanding reputation of developing extraordinary teachers.”

Other initiatives brought forth by partnership with MCSD and CSU include the annual one-day E3 conference, which has trained hundreds of MCSD educators (pre-K to doctoral) over the last two years in October. Short for Engage, Equip and Energize, E3 is a roadmap for transformative education in the 21st century. Additional professional development sessions have also been provided to MCSD educators throughout the year.

“We are excited to have reached a level in our partnership that Muscogee County School District has established this job guarantee for our education students,” said Deidre Greer, Dean, CSU College of Education and Health Professions.  “The confidence MCSD is placing in our graduates through this initiative is a testament to our commitment to preparing excellent teachers.”