WMU Grow Your Own Teacher Education
Western Michigan University (WMU)'s College of Education and Human Development is partnering with school districts, regional educational service agencies and the Talent Together consortium to address the teacher shortage in Michigan. These collaborations leverage multiple funding sources to offer fully-funded high quality teacher preparation in specific areas at the bachelor's and master's degree levels. These funding sources include the Michigan Future Proud Educator Grow Your Own initiative, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) 61i grant and the Talent Together state funded program.
For more information and for school districts interested in pursuing Round Two GYO funding, please contact senior associate dean Dr. Kristal Ehrhardt or program manager Alicia Vorholt.
Program benefits
- Fully-funded bachelor's or master's degree from WMU
- Fast-track your bachelor's degree in 2-3 years
- Earn a master's degree in 1-2 years
- Receive salary, benefits and experience with a community of learners
- Eligibility for Michigan Teacher Certification upon program completion
Program information
Student experience
95%
Over 95% of participants expressed a positive experience with operations and support services.
95%
Nearly 95% of participants expressed that program courses have prepared them for a career in teaching.
93%
Over 93% of program participants feel there is flexibility to support the unique needs of students.
85%
Over 85% of program participants expressed satisfaction with the quality of coursework instruction.
How to apply
Applicants must first indicate interest with their school district to gain sponsorship. Once sponsored and approved by the school district, applicants should apply to Western Michigan University using the links below.
Questions? Contact Alicia Vorholt, Program Manager.
GYO staff
![Image](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/styles/3_2/public/images/u6530/2024/Ehrhardt%20Kristal%20-%20Special%20Education_0-3-min.jpg?h=deaec4b9&itok=CSdU2hYL)
![Image](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/styles/3_2/public/images/u6530/2024/VanderEide%20Stacey%20-%20College%20of%20Education-min.jpg?h=edda956d&itok=BqaQDWrk)
![Image](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/styles/3_2/public/images/u6530/2024/Vorholt%20Alicia%20-%20CEHD.jpg?h=edda956d&itok=yJy7o9jc)
![Image](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/styles/3_2/public/images/u6530/2024/Screenshot%202024-01-23%20at%201.02.35%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?h=d36c1a8b&itok=Ov4U73tH)