Kennesaw State University and Fulton County Schools announced on Apr. 14 a partnership aimed at providing high school students with new opportunities to accelerate their college education and pursue careers in teaching.
The initiative is designed to address the need for more educators by creating a direct pathway from high school into Kennesaw State’s Clarice C. and Leland H. Bagwell College of Education. The dual enrollment program allows Fulton County students to earn college credit while still in high school, participate in early classroom experiences, and benefit from a streamlined admissions process.
“By partnering with Fulton County Schools, Kennesaw State University is creating a direct, supportive pathway from high school to a bachelor’s degree and into the teaching profession,” said Jacqueline Quiroga, KSU’s assistant vice president for Enrollment Services. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to prepare future educators while making college more accessible and affordable for students.”
The academic pathway will enable students to take approved Kennesaw State courses through Georgia’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural (CTAE) program. Students may earn up to 30 or more college credits before graduating high school, reducing both the time required and cost of obtaining a degree. The university will offer dual enrollment courses aligned with its teacher preparation programs as well as advising services tailored for those pursuing the CTAE Teaching as a Profession track.
Fulton County Schools will promote the program across its campuses, connect participants with hands-on classroom experiences such as job shadowing or student teaching within the district, and provide mentoring along with professional development support. Graduates who meet employment requirements may also receive priority hiring consideration by the district.
“Through our partnership with Kennesaw State University, we are not only expanding dual enrollment opportunities but intentionally building a strong pipeline of future educators empowering Fulton students to pursue teaching, return to their community, and shape the next generation right here at home,” said Gonzalo La Cava, chief human resources officer for Fulton County Schools.
