MSUN and Havre Public schools have been participating in a unique program to combat the teacher shortage. The program allows high school and college students to work in the classroom alongside teachers. They are paid by the district and also receive school credit.
Brad Moore the Havre Public Schools Interim superintendent explains the program details.
“When we realized we were still facing a staffing shortage with teachers, we moved a step further and said, let’s put these students who have an interest in education and working with kids, put them in the classroom as a student para working with a teacher up to two hours a day, just as a para would.”– Havre Public Schools Interim Superintendent Brad Moore
Now the Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) takes this further by expanding outreach to underserved rural areas of the state.
All TOPP classes this spring are offered online with regular contact with faculty. Students can take the first two courses without cost under the Montana University System’s One-Two-Free program. MSU-Northern is also pleased to offer waived tuition to students who exhaust One-Two-Free and wish to continue their TOPP studies.
Interested students should start by applying for admission online. Depending on location, students may apply to MSU-Northern or Great Falls College MSU. They can also reach out to their school counselors or principals for further support. For additional information, you can contact Curtis Smeby at 406-265-3517 or by email at smebyc@msun.edu
