UCM Launches 20% Tuition Award for School District Employees

 

The University of Central Missouri (UCM) has launched its new District Partnership Award to support school district employees who want to further their education and advance their careers.

Employees in participating school districts can use the District Partnership Award to cover 20% of their tuition for any graduate-level course, graduate certificate program, master's program or education specialist program at UCM. 

As Missouri continues to face education workforce challenges, the university and its College of Education have implemented numerous strategies to actively support school districts and address the statewide teacher shortage. Ongoing examples of these initiatives include hosting professional development events for current and aspiring teachers, partnerships with school districts to offer advanced degree programs and providing pathways for paraprofessionals seeking an undergraduate teaching degree or certificate.

The university has built a bridge between classrooms and careers, and the District Partnership Award helps enhance its commitment to supporting Missouri’s workforce. The scholarship is designed to make graduate education more accessible and affordable for working professionals who serve students and families in the region. It is available to any employee in the participating districts, from teachers and administrators to counselors, clerical workers and custodial and cafeteria staff.

 

“Teachers and school staff have a profound impact on the students they serve, and they are the single most important in-school factor on student achievement,” said Ann McCoy, vice provost for Academic Programs and dean of Graduate Studies. “We are proud to offer the District Partnership Award to our area teachers and school staff.”

Participating districts include: 

• Blue Springs R-IV School District

• Center 58 School District 

• Clinton School District 

• Grain Valley Schools

• Grandview C-4 School District

• Hickman Mills C-1 School District

• Holden R-III School District

• Independence School District

• Kansas City, Kansas School District 

• Lee's Summit R-7 School District

• Oak Grove R-VI School District

• Raytown C-2 School District

• Warrensburg R-VI School District 

• All rural public school districts in Missouri, as determined by the NCES locale codes 

UCM offers classes online and in-person at its Warrensburg and Lee’s Summit campuses. Eligible school district employees who are admitted and enrolled at the university may apply for the District Partnership Award, valued at 20% of the university’s board-approved graduate tuition rate. Applicants must provide proof of employment with a participating school district. The award applies to tuition only each semester and does not cover mandatory fees.

For more information, contact the Office of Graduate Studies at gradadmit@ucmo.edu or 660-543-4729 or visit ucmo.edu/gradadmit. To find more graduate student scholarships, visit ucmo.edu/scholarships.