Teacher Pipeline Programs

Become a Certified Teacher for OKCPS

Our Teacher Pipeline program participants are supported by private funding through the OKCPS Foundation, which provides a wealth of resources to help them navigate full time jobs, take care of their families and attend college to earn their degrees. Colleges and university partnerships with OSU-OKC, OCCC, Rose State College and UCO also play a key role as these paraprofessionals earn their credits first at a community college and completing their degree at UCO. All tuition, fees and books are covered by the Foundation (after any applicable FASFA). OKCPS is committed to increasing diversity in its teacher ranks because it improves outcomes for students.

Participant Testimonials

The Teacher Pipeline Program provides financial and academic support for program participants already working in OKCPS to earn their teaching certification. Upon successful completion, these paraprofessionals become full-time teachers in OKCPS. Download the flyer HERE.

The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation said “yes” to me when everyone else said “no”. As a person who was on DACA and a new mother, it was very difficult to get help going back to school. Just as I was about to give up, I found out about The Foundation. They were very understanding of my situation, and their passion for helping people like me fueled my passion of one day being an educator. I have always felt supported by their amazing team. I would not be where I am today without them! Thank you!

Martha Martinez-Ramos 

This is currently my 10th year as a paraprofessional in the Oklahoma City Public School District. When I heard about the Diversity Teacher Pipeline Program, I was excited because I get to go to college and become a teacher doing what I love to do. I was also excited because financially, I could not afford to go to college. Finding out that tuition, books and certification tests are paid for, I quickly applied and have loved every moment of it! I am an Autism Paraprofessional at an elementary school and in the program to become a Severe/Profound Autism teacher. Being in the Pipeline Program is preparing and equipping me to run my own classroom and also helping me do something that I would not have done on my own. I am a single parent, first-generation college student within my family, all while working full-time. I must admit that the road has not been easy but I am determined to complete the course that is laid before me. I can truly say that the pros outweigh the cons. This has definitely been an opportunity that I did not want to pass up. I am so glad that I am a part of this program! 

Anna Guest 

Eligibility and Requirements
  • All paraprofessionals are welcome to apply
  • Must be an OKCPS employee for a minimum of one year and be classified as a paraprofessional
  • Must commit to teaching in OKCPS for a minimum of three years after certification

OKCPS High School to Teacher

Pipeline Program

As a way to fill the front of our pipeline and create a pathway for our graduates to become certified teachers, we are recruiting OKCPS high school students to apply for and join our Teacher Pipeline Programs. Download the flyer HERE.

My name is Melanie Garcia and I’m 18 years old. I recently graduated from Northwest Classen in May 2022. The High School pipeline program impacted my life in a positive way. After I graduated I was able to go to college and work a full-time job as a teacher assistant at Thelma Parks Elementary School. The High School pipeline program is helping me achieve my dream of becoming a teacher. Without their amazing program I wouldn’t have been able to go to college and work a full-time job at the same time. I am truly happy and grateful to be a student in the High School pipeline program.

Melanie Garcia  

Eligibility and Requirements
  • Must be an OKCPS May 2024 graduate. All high school seniors are welcome to apply.
  • Must be 18 years old by August 1st
  • Must have a 2.75 high school GPA
  • Must be hired as a paraprofessional in OKCPS by August 1st
  • Must dedicate three years back to OKCPS once you become certified

*The High School to Teacher Pipeline Program is only offered in our traditional Oklahoma City Public Schools.

OKCPS Foundation Scholar

This competitive High School Pipeline track allows participants to attend the University of Central Oklahoma and start working towards their teacher certification full-time. Download the flyer HERE.

Eligibility and Requirements
  • Must be an Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) May 2024 graduate
  • Must have a 3.75 High School GPA
  • Must have an ACT score of 20
  • Must demonstrate leadership through high school
  • Must attend the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)
  • Must enroll as an Education Major
  • Must commit to teaching in OKCPS for a minimum of three years after certification
  • Must be able to serve as a volunteer for OKCPS

*The OKCPS Foundation Scholar Teacher Pipeline Program is only offered in our traditional Oklahoma City Public Schools.

FAQs

When should I apply to the Teacher Pipeline Programs?
How long can I anticipate being in the program?
Do I get to pick the college I want to attend?
How many classes do I have to take every semester?
Do I need to turn in official transcripts with my application?
How long does it take to complete the application process?
How would I be notified if I got into the pipeline program?
Do I have to submit my FAFSA every year?
What if I am not eligible to submit my FAFSA? Can I still apply to the Pipeline?
What kind of support would I have available?
What are the benefits of being in the Teacher Pipeline Program?
Do I have to take in-person classes or can I take courses online?
If I need to take an in-person class that is only offered during the day, how will that work with my job if that class is held during work hours?

Be an OKCPS Champion! Purchase your 2024 T-Up for OKCPS shirt.

X