FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 29, 2025
Chatham County Schools Partners with Central Carolina Community College to Expand Teacher Licensure Pathways
PITTSBORO, N.C. — In a strategic effort to strengthen Chatham County’s teacher pipeline, Chatham County Schools (CCS) and Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch the new Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certificate Program, a workforce development initiative aimed at certifying currently employed, non-licensed elementary educators.
The MOU was signed Thursday, August 28 at CCCC’s campus in Sanford by CCS Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson and CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman, marking a new chapter in cross-institutional collaboration to build a skilled, sustainable, and community-rooted teacher workforce.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to grow and retain talent from within our own community,” said Dr. Jackson. “By investing in those already serving in our schools, we are ensuring that our students are taught by educators who are not only qualified, but deeply connected to Chatham County’s values, culture, and future.”
Supporting Local Talent, Elevating Classrooms
The Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certificate Program is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and are currently working in elementary classrooms without a formal teaching license. Through this program, participants can pursue state licensure while remaining in their current roles, blending academic coursework with hands-on classroom experience.
Dr. Kelly Batten, CCS Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, emphasized the value of the initiative:
“This collaboration enables us to develop and retain talented individuals — many of whom already have strong ties to Chatham County — while ensuring they receive the professional preparation needed to meet the academic and social-emotional needs of our students. Together, we are building instructional capacity and fostering long-term success for our schools and community.”
The program is part of a broader regional initiative that also includes Lee and Harnett County Schools, all working alongside CCCC to address North Carolina’s growing teacher shortage through localized and flexible certification pathways.
Eligibility & Application
To qualify for the program, candidates must:
Hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA
● Be employed or have a commitment of employment from a partnering school district
● Meet content requirements via coursework or passing scores on state-required exams
● Complete required professional development
For more information about CCCC, or to apply, interested individuals can contact Ginger Harris Bartholomew, Chair of Education Programs at CCCC, at gharr082@cccc.edu or (919) 718-7260. To learn more about Chatham County Schools, please contact CCS’s Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión at (919) 542-3626 or visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us.
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Contact: Jessica Pasión
jpasion@chatham.k12.nc.us
468 Renaissance Drive Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: 919.542.3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 8,900 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, anπd engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.