Individuals with a bachelor's degree or higher outside of education, come learn about the benefits of becoming a certified ESE teacher in Hillsborough County through STEP, an HCPS accelerated Special Education Teacher Preparation Program!

Benefits: 

• Affordable teaching credentials while you teach
• Be part of a cohort experience (A group of teachers who take coursework together and work with the same course trainers. This helps teachers collaborate more and talk through the lessons they are learning. By being part of a cohort, you can see others who may be struggling with the same things new teachers face, which can provide a sense of support and shared experience).
• Those who enroll in the program and complete three or more years teaching and meet requirements will receive a 50% discount, $450 back in their pocket. (program value $900)  
• Competitive starting salaries 
• Top-notch benefits, including medical, basic life insurance and participation in the Florida Retirement System 
• Vacation time and school breaks 
• Professional development and training included at no cost
• Opportunities for career advancement 
• ESE specific mentors

"STEP is a great opportunity for anyone who thought they might want to be a teacher, can connect with students and has a growth mindset that we can always find ways to help our students find success.  We have created a program to provide a supportive environment for new teachers to develop and thrive with their students."

- Scott Richman, HCPS Supervisor in Professional Learning