MIDLAND – Midland College’s new Pre-K Academy is a month away from opening, but it could take years to solve the shortage of teachers in the area.
The new facility opens the door for students to work and go to school for early childhood education at the same time.
Midland College has already hired ten certified teachers for this academy. They plan to add an additional six, with the goal being to extend more classes each year.
Midland College’s current program allows fewer than 70 Pre-K students and doesn’t require many teachers.
However, this new facility could solve the issues for both a lack of childhood education and teacher shortages in the area.
“So, we’re hoping to add 200 this year, and then next year add an additional 100,” said the Executive Director of Childhood Education at Midland College, Leslie Goodrum. She also says that they’ve received over 500 applicants for their program.