BUCKHANNON – West Virginia Wesleyan College and Upshur County Schools are partnering in the West Virginia Grow Your Own program to provide a college-career pathway for high school students interested in the field of education.

This program enables high school students to earn at least 30 credits toward college graduation by taking dual-credit courses at Buckhannon-Upshur High School and attending four classes at West Virginia Wesleyan College during their junior and senior years. Students enrolled in the WV GYO program will spend two years as full-time students at WVWC followed by a year-long residency as a classroom teacher in Upshur County, which includes full pay and benefits. Following the residency, students will continue to teach for Upshur County for three consecutive years.

Dr. James Moore, interim president of West Virginia Wesleyan College, recently attended the Upshur County Board of Education to highlight the partnership.

Moore said, “WVWC has a long history of producing education graduates ready to lead in the classroom. Some of these graduates are making an impact in Upshur County Schools and this program will add to that number while meeting the teacher shortage in West Virginia.”

Dr. Sara Lewis-Stankus ‘89, Superintendent of Upshur County Schools, added, “Our partnership with West Virginia Wesleyan College allows our students to become part of a local initiative that is meaningful and impactful to our school system and community. Together, we are inspiring future educators. The WV GYO program is part of our community, our investment and our future.”