SHAPING CLASSROOMS, COMMUNITIES + THE NEXT GENERATION Clocktower | Shaping Classrooms, Communities + the Next Generation Accredited, Flexible Programs PREPARE PK-12 TEACHERS Across Ohio and the nation, K-12 schools and districts are navigating rising expectations, shifting regulations and urgent workforce needs. Aligned with Franklin’s mission to provide accessible, career-focused education, the K-12 programs offered through the H.K. & Eva James College of Education extend the University’s reach and reputation for excellence. PREPARING TEACHERS AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES While some learners choose Franklin’s teacher preparation programs to enter the K-12 environment, others are already part of the ecosystem: paraprofessionals, classroom assistants and community-based educators employed in districts across the state. Franklin’s accredited, flexible programs honor their experience while opening doors to continued growth. Programs align with state standards and are structured to meet licensure requirements, guiding students clearly and efficiently toward eligibility. Franklin’s approval by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services as the state’s first Teacher Apprenticeship Sponsor approval adds a new point of entry — helping schools and districts grow their own teachers from their existing workforce. It also underscores the College of Education’s role in shaping the future of teacher preparation in the state. Through its apprenticeship program, the University provides a meaningful way to deepen skills, earn required credentials, and continue strengthening communities. TEACHER PROGRAMS BUILT FOR LEARNERS’ + WORKFORCE NEEDS Recognizing the realities of working adults, Franklin offers online coursework combined with student teaching, field experiences and apprenticeship opportunities that often take place in the learner’s own school or district. This approach preserves income and continuity while providing the supervised practice required for credential attainment. Transfer-friendly structures support community college graduates, post-baccalaureate certificate seekers, and paraprofessional and support staff, as they advance into licensed or specialized roles. To help build a more stable, well-prepared teacher workforce, coursework often ties directly to the schools and districts where students may already work, creating immediate value for local systems. 08 ANNOUNCING THE H.K. & EVA JAMES COLLEGE OF EDUCATION To reflect the prominence of Franklin’s education offerings, the University has transitioned its School of Educationto the H.K. & Eva James College of Education. Through its College of Education, the University will continue to expand its geographic reach and workforce-focused mission. The name of the college honors H.K. and Eva James, lifelong educators in eastern North Carolina. They are the parents of alumni and generous contributors Gary James (‘71), a 34-year member of the Franklin Board of Trustees, and his brother, the late Dennis S. James (‘71). This recognition honors the James family’s enduring belief in the transformative power of education and the contribution that Franklin made in their own lives and success.
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