Asheboro City Schools will celebrate the first three graduates of its TEACH Program on April 21, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the district’s teacher pipeline initiative.
The TEACH Program, which stands for Tomorrow’s Educators: Advancement to College through High School, is a partnership-based teacher preparation pathway developed by Asheboro City Schools in collaboration with Randolph Community College and the Institute for Partnerships in Education at UNC Greensboro.
The celebration, which will also recognize new TEACH participants, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the Asheboro City Schools Professional Development Center, located inside the Global Innovation Center at 211 W. Walker Ave., Asheboro, N.C.
Over the past three years, TEACH has been intentionally designed and refined as a sustainable, locally grounded pathway for high school students interested in becoming educators. The program provides a structured sequence of dual-enrollment coursework, advising, and early field-based learning experiences. Students are able to explore teaching as a profession while earning college credit and building clear connections between high school, community college, and university career pathways in education.
TEACH has served seven participants over the past two years and is now celebrating its first three graduates. This milestone marks the program’s transition from idea to implementation. Ongoing scholarship investments and shared commitments among partners position TEACH as a stable and scalable model for developing future educators within the community.
“This program reflects the power of partnership and long-term vision,” said Dr. Wendy Rich, Chief Academic Officer/Assistant Superintendent for Asheboro City Schools. “By aligning high school, community college, and university systems, we are creating a clear, supportive pathway for students who want to return to our classrooms as teachers.”
“The TEACH Program demonstrates what is possible when high schools, community colleges, and universities work together to create a seamless pathway for students,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “Through this collaboration, students can begin their college education early, stay aligned with university transfer requirements, and move forward with a clear and supported route into the teaching profession. At RCC, where Access leads to Success, we are proud to partner in building structured opportunities that guide students from the classroom to a career.”
The partnership is built on shared leadership and investment. Randolph Community College provides dual-enrollment opportunities and advising support to ensure students earn transferable college credit while still in high school. The Institute for Partnerships in Education at UNC Greensboro offers expertise in teacher preparation and university pathway alignment, strengthening the transition from community college to four-year degree completion.
The April 21 celebration is by invitation. Media wanting more information about the TEACH Program or the April 21 event, please contact:
Chandra Manning
Director of Communications and Talent Development
Asheboro City Schools
336-558-6999
cmanning@asheboro.k12.nc.us
About Asheboro City Schools
Asheboro City Schools serves students in Asheboro, North Carolina, and is committed to preparing learners for lifelong success through innovative programs, strong community partnerships, and a focus on academic excellence. The district is dedicated to growing and supporting high-quality educators who reflect and serve the local community.
About Randolph Community College
Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Ranked No. 1 in North Carolina by Niche.com, the College offers affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs that start throughout the year, both in person and online. To register, visit randolph.edu/register or call 336-633-0200 and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.
About the Institute for Partnerships in Education at UNC Greensboro
Based within the School of Education at UNC Greensboro, the Institute for Partnerships in Education brings together educators, leaders, and researchers to advance teaching and learning across public education. The Institute works with education agencies through long-term, trust-based partnerships that connect expertise with opportunity and support innovations for educators, students, families, and communities.
