Macon State Launches Accelerated Program for Education Majors

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Macon State now offers a path for students who want a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, but don’t necessarily need a teaching license.

Francesca Jordan-Stephens is a full-time mom, wife, and employee who is also taking advantage of earning a college degree in her spare time.

“I previously attended college years ago, prior to marriage and prior to having two children, and I never completed college,” said Jordan-Stephens.

Jordan-Stephens isn’t alone. Others just like her spend the day working and find themselves back in the classroom at night.

“The classes are more flexible for me because I have to sleep during the day and do different activities with my children during,” she said.

This wouldn’t be possible without Macon State’s non-certification education track.

“It is designed to support persons interested in the field of education, but not necessarily interested in teaching in the public K12 environment,” said Assistant Professor Loleta Sartin.

Sartin said, “We found that we have interest from home school parents, persons that are teaching in the private setting, persons that are just interested in educational fields so they may work with family and child services.”

The accelerated program requires nine fewer credit hours and focuses on teaching small children, from birth to age 5.

“I would like to teach and own my own daycare at some point in my life…it’s a passion that I have, I love children and I feel that I can make a difference,” said Jordan-Stephens.

The track was developed out of a work force need, according to Sartin. Jordan-Stephens expects to complete the program in December 2014.