DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — With the launch of a new program, DeKalb County Schools is targeting people who want to change careers and become public school teachers.
The IGNITE DeKalb Teacher Residency Program will give 50 hand-selected recruits free on-the-job training and certification while providing a $30,000 annual living stipend.
"Once selected, these individuals will participate in an intensive program while working on their master's program over the next year," Interim HR Administrator Dr. Tekeshia Ward-Smith said. "They will also serve as somewhat residential teachers in classrooms throughout the district."
Each participant will be required to teach within the district for the next five years.
The taxpayer's cost to get the program up and running is $3.2 million
According to Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton, it's a much-needed investment.
"Where else can you get a salary for a year, get trained by the best, and also pay for your master's and get it in a year? It's the best deal in metro Atlanta," Horton said.
Applications for the program are now open on the district's website. Leaders say they have received over 400 submissions so far.