Wichita State, WSU Tech and Wichita Public Schools partner to build local teacher pipeline

Megan Bailey, Reporter • May 10, 2025

Graduates listen as Iris Okere, former SGA President, addresses 2024 graduates and their families. (File photo)

Wichita State University, WSU Tech and Wichita Public Schools have announced a new partnership to help strengthen the teacher workforce in Kansas.

This partnership offers WPS graduates a route to earn their teacher’s license by taking two years of courses at WSU Tech, followed by two years at WSU and working as a paraeducator for the school district during that time.

“Developing a strong, local teacher workforce is critical to the future of our region,” WSU President Richard Muma said. “Through this partnership, we are counting on students who will have an impact on the future success of our schools and the community.”

There is also a scholarship available to students. The Kansas Promise Scholarship, funded by the state, allows eligible students to complete the WSU Tech paraeducator program for free.

People can learn more about the Local Teacher Pipeline at wichita.edu/wsu-wps and the WSU Tech Paraeducator Program at wsutech.edu/paraeducator.

About the Contributors

Megan Bailey, Reporter

Megan Bailey is a reporter for The Sunflower. Bailey is a senior pursuing a degree in communication studies. Before joining The Sunflower, she interned at NPR-affiliate KMUW, writing spots for the radio. After she graduates from Wichita State, she wants to be a reporter at a radio station. Outside of work, she enjoys swimming, singing and dancing. Her favorite band is Twenty One Pilots. She goes by she/her.

Allison Campbell, Editor-in-Chief

Allison Campbell is the editor-in-chief of The Sunflower. Campbell is a senior pursuing a journalism and media production degree with a minor in English. She served as one of the news editors during the 2023-2024 year. Campbell hopes to pursue a career in writing or editing after graduation. Campbell uses she/her pronouns.