Delaware County Gives High School Students Head Start Toward Teaching Careers Amid Shortage

CBS Philadelphia

December 2, 2025

Pennsylvania's teacher shortage is worsening, with thousands leaving the profession last year. In response, Delaware County is taking a new approach: creating a pipeline for future teachers that begins in high school.

The county has expanded a free program that allows students to earn up to 38 college credits toward a teaching degree while still in high school. It's called the Future Educators Certificate of Competency Dual Enrollment Program at Delaware County Community College.

"I was reluctant to join it because I didn't know if I could handle it, but I decided to give it a shot, and it's been one of the best decisions I've made," Ridley High School junior Taylor Fraim, 16, said. "When I'm done with high school, I'll have 38 college credits, which is almost an associate's degree, so I'll really only have to do two full years of college, which is amazing."

Click here for the full story via CBS Philadelphia

CBS Local Digital Media personalizes the global reach of CBS-owned and operated television and radio stations with a local perspective.