Case Study: Flexible Certification for Music and P.E. Teachers in California
| by Hannah Sparling
When Ann Tafolla-Voetsch first heard about Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, she thought she must be missing the fine print.
As CEO of Rhythm & Moves, Inc., in California, Tafolla-Voetsch has seen plenty of aspiring teachers hesitate to start their credentialing program because of financial constraints and/or existing student debt from their undergraduate degree. But TEACH-NOW — an online, 9-month EPP — “offers an affordable and accessible pathway to help overcome that barrier,” Tafolla-Voetsch said.
Curious about the low cost, she called Moreland to conduct a program review.
“From that moment, it became, ‘Hey, this is a really wonderful, viable option for teachers,’” she said. “I’ve had nothing but positive feedback from my teachers that have gone through TEACH-NOW.”
Since partnering together, Moreland University has helped 36 Rhythm & Moves teachers earn professional credentials in California. The partnership involves discounted tuition, which means an estimated cumulative savings of $25,000 for those teachers.
“Movement and music are a crucial component of education,” said Moreland Director of Operations Shelbie Goodnow. “Rhythm & Moves is giving students tools and skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives, and we’re thrilled to partner with them and their teachers to support that mission.”
Battling Teacher Shortages
Hiring and retaining teachers in California is a “constant battle,” Tafolla-Voetsch said. California teachers are among the highest paid in the nation, but the state also faces a high cost of living.
California had more than 10,000 teacher vacancies during the 2021-22 school year. Compounding the problem, EPPs in the Golden State saw a 7% decrease in enrollment over the past five years.
For teachers looking to earn a credential, the EPP choice usually comes down to a few key factors: Do they want an in-person or online EPP? How much does the program cost? And how long will it take?
For those who prefer online, Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is an excellent option, Tafolla-Voetsch said. It’s a quality EPP but also affordable. And the instructors are flexible and understanding that they’re dealing with adults who have jobs, children, and other responsibilities.
“The partnership with Moreland and TEACH-NOW has worked really well,” she said. “I have nothing but positive feedback. I would recommend it to anybody.”
About Rhythm & Moves
Rhythm & Moves started with a physical education program at one school. Today, 40 years later, R&M provides P.E. and music education for more than 100 K-8 schools in California.
“Our programs provide kids with access points to varying ways to move, to be exposed to music,” Tafolla-Voetsch said. “The hope is they find something they love that becomes a healthy, active part of their lives.”
About Moreland University Partnerships in California
Moreland University partners with schools, districts, and organizations across the country to help teachers earn professional credentials and master’s degrees.
If more than 30 teachers in your organization need a credential, Moreland will offer a discounted tuition rate. Click here to learn more about Moreland partnerships in California.
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