A New Path to Teaching: TEACHSpartanburg is Here!

Big things are happening in Spartanburg County for students who want to become teachers! Spartanburg Community College, Spartanburg School District 3, and USC Upstate have joined forces to create something new and exciting: the TEACHSpartanburg program. This partnership is designed to help students in high school start their journey to becoming teachers—right here in their own community. TEACHSpartanburg is the first program of its kind in the county.

The TEACHSpartanburg program is special because it gives high school students a head start. Here’s how it works: Students who join the TEACHSpartanburg program start taking classes with Spartanburg Community College (SCC) while they’re in high school. These classes are part of what’s called “dual enrollment,” which means students get credit for both high school and college at the same time. After graduation, they continue at SCC to compl

ete their associate’s degree. Then, they transfer to USC Upstate to finish their bachelor’s degree in education. All of this happens within just two years after graduating high school. That means students can become teachers faster—and with a clear plan in place. Most students in the program will finish both degrees in just two years after high school!

But the program isn’t just about earning degrees. TEACHSpartanburg gives students real experience by providing them with time in real classrooms in District 3 schools. They’ll work with experienced teachers, learn how to lead a class, and get hands-on practice while student teaching. They'll also take part in special mentoring sessions and professional development activities to help them grow into strong, confident educators. 

This is more than just a great opportunity for students—it’s also a smart solution to a real challenge. Spartanburg County, like many places, needs more teachers. By creating a path for students to become teachers in their own community, TEACHSpartanburg helps solve that shortage. It’s a way for District 3 to “grow their own” teachers—students who already know and care about the community and who want to give back by teaching future generations.

This partnership between SCC, SSD3, and USC Upstate shows what’s possible when schools and colleges work together. It’s a shared commitment and investment in the future of education. By helping students succeed, supporting our schools, and building a stronger future for everyone in Spartanburg County, they’re working to make sure that our local schools have the great teachers they need. Dr. Michael Mikota, President of Spartanburg Community College, acknowledged the program’s role in reducing student debt and accelerating career pathways. “This partnership embodies the power of collaboration in public education. Our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed, all while minimizing financial burdens.”

If you’re a student who dreams of becoming a teacher, or a parent looking for a strong, smart path for your child, TEACHSpartanburg might be the perfect fit. It’s a chance to get ahead, save time and money, and make a real difference in the lives of others—and it all starts in high school.

We’re proud to be part of this journey, and we can’t wait to see the next generation of teachers grow through TEACHSpartanburg.