City of Sunland Park, NM – Western Governors University (WGU) and Gadsden Independent School District launched a new partnership agreement to create seamless transfer pathways for Gadsden ISD employees who want to earn their bachelor’s or master’s degree with WGU.
“WGU is excited to assist school district employees achieve their higher education and career goals,” said Linda Battles, WGU Regional Vice President, South Region. “Across the country, the need for teachers and other essential workers is at an all-time high. Our partnership with Gadsden ISD will provide employees with the opportunity and flexibility to earn their degree at their own pace while juggling work and family responsibilities.”
Located across four counties, Gadsden ISD has over 1,000 employees, 29 campuses covering an area of 1400 square miles, including southern Dona Ana and Otero counties, and educates approximately 14,200 students in programs stretching from preschool through the 12th grade. It is the fourth largest ISD in New Mexico.
“The partnership with WGU offers a pathway for employees to pursue careers as an educator as well as professional development pathways for career advancement,” said Travis L. Dempsey, Gadsden ISD Superintendent. “It supports our efforts to upskill and reskill our workforce and facilitate teacher growth to ensure our teachers provide high-quality learning opportunities to our students.”
Through the agreement with WGU, Gadsden ISD employees may select among more than 60 accredited bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in K-12 teaching, information technology, business, and health professions. Transfer students also receive special benefits including:
- Exclusive partner scholarships, valued at up to $2,500,
- Access to more than 30 additional scholarships and financial aid,
- Military benefits for qualified applicants,
- Access to career services and alumni events and activities, and
- Comprehensive, seamless transfer policy.
WGU serves more than 140,000 students nationwide, including 64 Gadsden ISD employees. Eighty percent of WGU students hold full-and part-time jobs.
