College to Career

Seed Teachers

New Student Recruitment Paused

Seed Teachers offers diverse Pierce County students a cohort-based, debt-free path to their college degree and teacher certification—all leading to a high-impact teaching job back in their home community.

Currently, we are not recruiting new students for this high impact program.

Scholars are still on campus, and we are supporting them through graduation and into career.

We are actively seeking new college and funding partners to scale the program. Please email info@degreesofchange.org if you are interested in learning more about joining this important initiative.

Teachers Who Reflect Their Students

Seed Teachers offers diverse Pierce County students a cohort-based, debt-free path to their college degree and teacher certification—all leading to a high-impact teaching job back in their home community.


How It Works

PATHWAY TO A DEBT-FREE COLLEGE DEGREE

Seed Teachers scholars receive an exceptional scholarship package at Pacific Lutheran University that meets their full financial need with no more than $5,000 in loans each year. Paired with a job at their school district where students earn more than they borrow, scholars can obtain their college degree and teacher certificate without student debt.

PAID WORK IN SCHOOLS THROUGH COLLEGE

Scholars get paid to work with students in their school district throughout their college experience. Each year, scholars gain more experience and develop their skills, preparing them be high-impact teachers who make a difference for students every day.

COHORT-BASED SUPPORT AND MENTORING

Scholars journey through college together in cadres of 15-20, meeting together monthly for professional development and community building. Cadres are supported by a dedicated Degrees of Change program director and mentors from their school district and Pacific Lutheran University.

Seed Internships 3

THE UNTAPPED POTENTIAL OF HOMEGROWN EDUCATORS

We are building a more equitable public education system with teachers who reflect the students they serve.
Learn more about the application process