Orange County Public Schools & ABCTE Plan Events to Recruit Career Changers

Orlando, FL (February 27, 2006) – Orange County Public Schools announced today that it will hold "Become a Teacher" information sessions on March 20, 21 and 22 for professionals who want to change careers and become teachers. The events are being organized in cooperation with the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE).

At the sessions, attendees can meet with Orange County Public Schools officials and ABCTE certification counselors to discuss how they can earn their teacher certification through several alternative routes. ABCTE offers the Passport to Teaching certification program that is recognized by the State of Florida as a route to full certification. Passport to Teaching allows highly knowledgeable professionals with bachelor’s degrees in any area with an opportunity to pursue their teacher certification through an individualized process; no additional college courses are required.

Orange County faces a shortage of qualified applicants for teaching positions. The district, which is comprised of 161 schools and a total student enrollment of 178,000 students, plans to hire 2,000 teachers for the 2006-2007 school year. Critical shortage areas include Math, Science, Special Education and English for Speakers of Other Languages.

Superintendent Ronald Blocker states, "We are extremely pleased to announce this new partnership with ABCTE.  OCPS is an excellent choice for professionals considering a career change because we are committed to professional development and mentoring to ensure their success.  If individuals truly care about young people and want to impact the future of our community, this is the place to be.   I am convinced they will not find a more rewarding career." 

The information sessions will take place at the following locations:

March 20                                                                            
5, 6 & 7 p.m.                                                                        
Dr. Phillips High School                                                            
6500 Turkey Lake Road                                                         
Orlando, FL 32819        

March 21
5, 6 & 7 p.m.
University High School
11501 Eastwood Drive
Orlando, FL 32817

March 22
5, 6 & 7 p.m.
William R. Boone High School 
2000 South Mills Avenue
Orlando, FL 32806