E D U C ATION
Empowering Educators: Strategies to Fulfill the Teacher Workforce Gap by: Sharon Michalik, Director of Communications, Bay District Schools
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f you’ve heard newly-appointed Bay District Schools Superintendent Mark McQueen speak recently, then you’ve heard him reference the "Team of Teams" approach mentioned by author Stanley McChrystal in his leadership book "Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World." This concept highlights the symbiotic relationship of various smaller teams within large organizations/communities who work together to solve complex problems. In Bay County, the recently formed Bay District Scholars embodies this approach, aiming to address the widespread issue of teacher shortages through a collaborative effort involving Bay District Schools, Gulf Coast State College, Florida State University Panama City Campus, Grand Canyon University, the St. Joe Community Foundation and the Bay Education Foundation. The central idea behind Bay District Scholars is to encourage experienced classroom paraprofessionals and support employees without four-year degrees to pursue higher education and secure the qualifications required to become certified teachers. The three educational institutions involved Gulf Coast State College, Florida State University Panama City Campus, and Grand Canyon University guide each student individually through the intricacies of financial aid applications. After students secure primary funding, the foundations try to bridge any remaining financial gaps.
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BAY BIZ / WINTER 2024
Superintendent Mark McQueen noted the foundations play a critical role in the program. "GCSC, FSU-PC and GCU are doing a phenomenal job of securing financial aid for our students,” he said. “But the foundations are mission critical as well because even a $200-$300 gap in funding each semester can keep someone from being able to afford college.” McQueen said Bay District Scholars is a wise investment for all of Bay County. “We’re investing in our employees, and we're taking this journey with them every step of the way,” he explained. “By investing in our employees, we’re investing in our community and the ultimate academic achievement of our students.” Bay District Scholars receive one-on-one support, problemsolving assistance, and tutoring when necessary, with a commitment to teach for Bay District Schools for at least two school years in return. Most of the members of the inaugural 2022-2023 cohort of more than 50 employees have completed two semesters of college without incurring any personal expenses, thanks to innovative financial aid teams and foundation support. Another 75 employees are enrolling for the Spring or Summer of 2024. The program's success hinges on the unwavering commitment of the St. Joe Community Foundation, the Bay Education Foundation, GCSC, FSU-PC and GCU. April Wilkes, Director of the St. Joe Community Foundation, is a
