Wiregrass Georgia Technical College proudly welcomed Cohort 15 of the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (GaTAPP) following the successful completion of the program's Essentials of Effective Teaching training held July 6–17 on the college's Valdosta Campus.

Eight new teacher candidates from school systems across the Coastal Plains Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) officially began their journey toward earning renewable Georgia teaching certificates through the state's premier alternative teacher certification program. Participants represent Lowndes County Schools, Colquitt County Schools, Valdosta City Schools, Ben Hill County Schools, and Scintilla Charter Academy.

 Designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree or higher in a field other than education, GaTAPP provides an alternative pathway into the teaching profession while candidates serve as full-time classroom teachers. Throughout the program, candidates receive intensive mentoring, classroom coaching, professional development, and individualized support from a Candidate Support Team while completing required coursework and demonstrating teaching competencies. The program includes a two-week summer Essentials course, ongoing seminars, and a minimum of 18 months of mentoring and coaching before candidates are recommended for Georgia certification.

 Wiregrass has served as an approved and accredited GaTAPP provider for more than a decade, helping address the growing need for highly qualified teachers throughout South Georgia. During that time, the college has built strong partnerships with local P–12 school systems and has guided numerous teacher candidates from first-year educators into accomplished classroom teachers, instructional leaders, and administrators. Many program graduates have continued their education, earned advanced degrees, and advanced into leadership positions within their school districts.

 "A good education can change anyone, but a good teacher can change everything," said Patty Hancock, Ed.S., GaTAPP Program Specialist and Lead Supervisor. "Every year, I have the privilege of watching talented professionals answer the call to teach and grow into confident, effective educators who make a lasting impact on their students and communities. We are excited to welcome Cohort 15 and look forward to supporting each candidate as they develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to inspire the next generation." 

Members of Cohort 15 include:
Adriana Blakeman – Valdosta City Schools
Caroline Best – Ben Hill County Schools
Joshua Bertolotti – Scintilla Charter Academy
Danielle Guillot – Lowndes County Schools
Nick Kudyk – Scintilla Charter Academy
Juan Ramirez – Colquitt County Schools
Erin Ricks – Colquitt County Schools
Brandy Sulewski – Colquitt County Schools

For more information about the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (GaTAPP) at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, visit www.wiregrass.edu.