Bridgepoint Education granted $100,000 to the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), as part of the company's Education Fellows Program. To date, the contribution has provided San Diego teachers with 219 scholarships, enabling them to participate in the Learning Edge Certification, a national program that prepares instructional leaders for online and blended learning.
"Our Education Fellows program is designed to support organizations that equip educators and, in turn, students with the right tools for success," said Andrew Clark, chief executive officer at Bridgepoint Education. "We are pleased to partner with the San Diego County Office of Education and provide funds that will enable teachers to become fluent in online learning. With significant growth in online education, it's become essential for teachers to be able to navigate in the online environment and provide the best possible education for their students."
Launched in 2011, the Leading Edge Certification guides educators through rigorous and engaging curriculum based on the national standards for online teaching. Upon successful completion, the certification offers schools, districts and other prospective employers assurance that Leading Edge Certified Online Teachers have the skills to effectively facilitate online courses and have a solid understanding of how to enhance the learning opportunities for all students enrolled in their courses.
"Budgets for professional development opportunities have been cut significantly throughout San Diego, and many teachers are now faced with the dilemma of spending personal funds on professional development or simply going without," said Dr. Randy Ward, San Diego County superintendent of schools. "The Bridgepoint fellowships remove the major funding obstacles for teachers and districts, and we're very grateful to Bridgepoint for stepping up."
For the video on the Bridgepoint and San Diego County Office of Education partnership, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmXs6o93TgA
About Bridgepoint Education
Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE:BPI) improves the way individuals learn. By harnessing creativity, knowledge and proprietary technologies, such as Constellation, Thuze and Waypoint Outcomes, Bridgepoint Education has re-engineered the modern student experience with innovative solutions that advance learning. Its academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies – embody the contemporary college experience. Ashford University offers associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs while University of the Rockies offers master's and doctoral degree programs. Both provide progressive online platforms, as well as traditional campuses located in Clinton, Iowa (Ashford University), and Colorado Springs, Colorado (University of the Rockies). For more information about Bridgepoint Education, visit www.bridgepointeducation.com, www.facebook.com/BridgepointEducation or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.668.2580.