The Denver Public Schools Career Education Center (CEC) will offer the Teacher Cadet program during the spring semester this school year. CEC has created the Teacher Cadet program in response to the rising need for teachers in the United States.

Within the next ten years, over 2 million teachers will be needed in public and private schools, according to Monster.com career center reporter John Rosshimm. Studies show that 75% of all teachers return to teach within 100 miles of where they attended school, according to the South Carolina Center for Teacher Recruitment. The Teacher Cadet programs goal is to fill the need for future vacancies.

The innovative curriculum will provide students with real-life experience in the classrooms. Students will be placed in nearby early elementary and middle schools. The program is divided into three main units: The Learner, The School, and the Teacher and Teaching. The program will allow students to enhance their study skills for college, and develop leadership, communication and decision-making skills.

Junior and Senior students with a “B” average are eligible to participate in the Teacher Cadets program. Students must complete a one-page application and have three references completed by teachers.

The Career Education Center is the region's only comprehensive career and technical education magnet school. Located at 2650 Eliot Street in Denver, CEC is open to all 9th through 12th grade students in the metro Denver area. CEC represents over 21 career programs.

Students interested in attending the program this spring can contact Natalie Montecalvo, Teacher Cadet program coordinator and teacher, at natalie_montecalvo@dpsk12.org, or Merrilee Thomas, CEC Community Liaison, at merrilee_thomas@dpsk12.org. For more information on the Teacher Cadets program or the Career Education Center, contact CEC at 303-964-3000.