Waukegan Program Transforms Paraprofessionals into Certified Teachers

UPDATE: A groundbreaking program in Waukegan, Illinois, is empowering **18 paraprofessionals** to become certified teachers, addressing a critical teacher shortage in the area. This initiative, launched by the **Illinois State Board of Education**, comes at a pivotal moment as schools nationwide face a staffing crisis.

In a move that could reshape education in the region, **Anita Tejada** and **Roz Hunter**, seasoned paraprofessionals with nearly **40 years of combined experience**, are nearing completion of their college programs. Both women are eager to teach in the **Waukegan Community Unit School District 60**, with Tejada expressing immense gratitude: “This program has been a life-changing opportunity,” she stated. “It has brought me one step closer to achieving the dream I have carried for many years — becoming a teacher who inspires, supports, and serves as a role model for her students.”

The urgency of this program is underscored by the **$1.7 million** funding over three years allocated to District 60, aimed at recruiting and retaining educators. In addition to the paraprofessionals, **34 current teachers** are pursuing master’s degrees, and **16** are gaining certification as learning development specialists.

Meanwhile, **North Chicago School District 187** is participating with a budget of **$400,000**, hiring an educational coach to enhance teaching quality and support teachers in obtaining certifications, particularly for **English as a Second Language**. “It’s helped us keep the teachers we want — **96%** are rated excellent by their principals,” said **John Price**, Superintendent of District 187.

The impact of this initiative is profound, as it not only boosts the number of qualified teachers but also ensures that these educators are familiar with the community’s unique challenges. “The best part of growing your own is they know our story and are already part of the community,” said **Amanda Milewski**, District 60’s associate superintendent.

With positions in **special education**, **science**, and **math** among the hardest to fill, Milewski emphasizes that current educators transitioning into these roles allows the district to maintain quality and continuity in teaching. The program also presents a financial incentive, with salaries for certified teachers starting at **$52,279**, compared to approximately **$25,000** for paraprofessionals.

Tejada and Hunter are not only transforming their careers but also the lives of their students. Tejada aims to teach young children, having already worked at six of the district’s **15 elementary schools**. “I hope to work with diverse high school learners,” said Hunter, who is currently student-teaching at the **Alternative Optional Education Center** in Waukegan. “I’m passionate about helping students who think and learn differently develop the academic, social, and self-advocacy skills they need to succeed both in school and beyond.”

This innovative initiative is a beacon of hope for the educational landscape in Waukegan and North Chicago, showcasing a model that other districts could emulate as they face similar challenges. As these paraprofessionals transition into full-fledged teachers, they will play a critical role in shaping the future of education in their communities.

Stay tuned for further updates as these dedicated educators move closer to fulfilling their dreams and making a lasting impact on their students and the community.