MANSFIELD — Mid-Ohio Adult Education and The Ohio State University at Mansfield have partnered to launch “Ready, Set, Teach!,” a free six-week program designed to prepare aspiring educators, future paraprofessionals and substitute teachers for careers in education.
The program runs Sept. 8 through Oct. 14 at the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center. Classes will meet from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
“Ready, Set, Teach!” is funded by an Aspire grant, with MOESC serving as the fiscal agent. Through its grant stewardship, the service center provides the financial foundation to eliminate tuition costs for participants while supporting workforce development initiatives across North Central Ohio.
As local school districts face ongoing staff shortages, the collaborative program aims to create an accessible entry point into the field. Adult learners will build content knowledge in reading, writing and math to prepare for the ParaPro Assessment, along with receiving guidance on transitioning into college degree programs and teaching careers.
Faculty and staff from OSU Mansfield will lead instruction covering:
- Child and adult developmental stages
- Classroom strategies to boost student engagement
- Learning disabilities and exceptional learners
- Behavior management and trauma-informed practices
- Cultural dynamics within homes and school systems
“We’re excited to partner with The Ohio State University at Mansfield to bring this opportunity to our community,” said Andie Karpiak, program director for Mid-Ohio Adult Education. “We’re facing a real shortage of teachers, paraprofessionals and substitute teachers, and that directly impacts our students. Every child deserves a quality education, and Ready, Set, Teach! helps remove barriers for people who want to become educators and make a difference in our schools.”
Ashley Smith, assistant coordinator for the OSU Mansfield Education Department, emphasized the partnership’s focus on long-term workforce development.
“By working together, we’re creating meaningful educational pathways that connect aspiring educators with the knowledge, skills and resources they need to succeed,” Smith said. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the future educator workforce in our region.”
MOESC leaders noted that the initiative directly addresses critical staffing needs in classrooms throughout the region.
“Ready, Set, Teach! is the kind of partnership our schools need right now,” said Kevin Kimmel, MOESC superintendent. “We’re proud to support a program that helps build a strong pipeline of future educators. By connecting our member districts with individuals pursuing careers as paraprofessionals, substitute teachers and teachers, we’re investing in the workforce our schools and students will depend on for years to come.”
Eric Turlo, MOESC director of student services, highlighted the crucial role paraprofessionals play in student success.
“Our students — especially those with diverse learning needs — rely heavily on the incredible support paraprofessionals provide every day,” Turlo said. “That’s why Ready, Set, Teach! is so vital. This collaboration blends Mid-Ohio Adult Education’s dedication to adult learners with the deep educational expertise of OSU Mansfield.”
The program is open to prospective educators, current or new substitute teachers, future paraprofessionals and anyone interested in entering the education field.
While enrollment is free, seating is limited. Interested applicants can register by calling 419-521-9001.