Pathways to Teaching
Grow Your Own
Hamilton County Schools is always looking for great talent; including individuals who have started other careers and want to transition into teaching! Our Grow Your Own programs provide a pathway to the classroom for our classified staff and engaged community members. We partner with several local universities to offer reduced-cost (or free!) tuition in education preparation programs. You serve as school-based classified staff and then have the option to transition into a teaching position while completing the program. As part of the program, you also receive mentorship and coaching support from HCS.
Learn More about Grow Your Own
Our Partners
Our Partners
University of Tennessee – Chattanooga
University of Tennessee – Knoxville
Lipscomb University
Lee University
Lipscomb University
Secondary Licensure
Lipscomb University Secondary Licensure" to "Candidates complete coursework for a secondary grades teaching license with Lipscomb University while being the teacher of record in a Hamilton County classroom. The program is completed in approximately 1.5 years with the option for the candidate to complete the master's program through Lipscomb.
Learn MoreProgram Participants
Joy Centurion
"Going back to school full time while being a working mom of four, I really don't think I could have made it without the financial support of Hamilton County Schools and the emotional support and camaraderie of my cohort!"
Tarrell Whiteside
"Before the Grow Your Own program, I was a behavior management specialist and transitioned to a middle school math teacher. Through this program, I received coaching and feedback as a first-year teacher from an HCS math coach. The feedback that Ms. Gardner gave me completely changed my classroom management for the better and helped me think about my students' needs. She helped instill in me the mindset that it takes time to grow into an excellent teacher and to be committed to growth."
Erica Roberson
"I’m in love with teaching. I wish I’d done this years ago."
Your Pathway to Licensure
Candidate Selection
Candidates will interview with HCS and apply to the partner that matches their licensure area
Prepare
While completing coursework, candidates will serve in a school based classified position and study for their Praxis exam with HCS support
Teach
After passing their Praxis exam and serving in a classified position, candidates can continue to complete licensure requirements while serving as a full-time, certified teacher
Our Talent Network
Interested in joining Hamilton County in the future? Join our talent network in order to be directly contacted by our recruitment team.
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