Brookdale Secures $680,231 Grant to Train Tomorrow’s Teachers

Brookdale Community College has been awarded a $680,231 grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL), Office of Apprenticeship to launch its new Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) program, creating a new pathway for people who want to become teachers.

The PACE program will help address New Jersey’s need for qualified educators by preparing adults for careers in teaching. The program is designed for paraprofessionals, early childhood professionals, career changers, and others who are interested in working in schools but need guidance and training to get started.

During the 18-month grant period, Brookdale will enroll and train 75 future educators. Participants will receive more than 160 hours of classroom instruction, career readiness training, and hands-on experience in local schools, including job shadowing with experienced educators. They will also receive training to prepare for the nationally recognized Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential, expanding their career opportunities in special education and behavioral support. Upon completing the program, participants will be prepared to move into a Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program or continue on a pathway toward a career in education.

“Every student deserves a great teacher, and every aspiring educator deserves a clear path into the profession,” said David M. Stout, Ph.D., president of Brookdale Community College. “This grant allows Brookdale to connect those two needs by helping local residents prepare for meaningful careers while supporting our school districts with a stronger pipeline of qualified educators.”

Susan Pagano, EdD., executive director of Continuing and Professional Studies at Brookdale said the initiative is about creating opportunities for people who may not have seen teaching as an attainable career.

“PACE is designed to remove barriers that often keep talented people from pursuing a career in education,” Pagano said. “Whether someone is already working in a school, changing careers, or just beginning their journey, this program provides the training, mentorship, and personal support they need to succeed. Our goal is to help participants build lasting careers while strengthening the future workforce for New Jersey’s schools.”

Brookdale Community College is an approved educator preparation provider and the sponsor of several registered teacher apprenticeship programs. Through innovative workforce training and strong partnerships with local school districts, the College continues to create opportunities that strengthen both the local workforce and the communities it serves.