Columbia College awarded nearly $2.7 million to prepare teachers to support English learners
October 26, 2026
Five-year initiative will cover tuition for grant-supported coursework and expand ESOL preparation and professional learning
Columbia College has been awarded a $2,693,966 federal grant through the National Professional Development program, a competition announced by the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor. The award will strengthen the preparation and support of teachers serving English learners in South Carolina, including full tuition coverage for grant-supported coursework.
The five-year project, Collaborative Pathways to English Learner Achievement (CPELA), will expand opportunities for future and practicing teachers to earn English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) qualifications and strengthen classroom instruction. Project partners include the South Carolina Department of Education and the school districts of Kershaw County, Marlboro County, and Lexington County Two.
“This grant removes a financial barrier for students who want to build the skills to support English learners,” said Dr. Tracy West, Dean of the School of Education at Columbia College. “For our current students, there is no separate application. They can work with their advisor and register for the courses as part of their regular registration process. We want this preparation to be accessible and connected to the classroom experiences they are already having.”
The College is recruiting current education students through advising appointments and direct outreach to students completing field experiences. The grant will cover all tuition for grant-supported coursework. Beginning in fall 2027, ESOL coursework will also become part of the educational pathway for designated incoming students.
Beginning in summer 2027, Columbia College will offer tuition-free graduate coursework toward ESOL add-on certification for eligible teachers in partner districts. The project will also provide professional development opportunities for teachers in those districts.
By 2031, the project aims to support ESOL endorsement for 200 pre-service teacher candidates and ESOL certification for 75 teachers. It will also provide at least 155 ESOL-endorsed practicing teachers with a professional learning community focused on evidence-based literacy practices during their induction year.
“Columbia College’s investment in teachers reaches into classrooms and communities across South Carolina,” said President Dr. John H. Dozier. “This award allows us to expand access to specialized preparation and work alongside our school partners to support English learners. We’re helping educators build skills they can use throughout their careers, with benefits for the children and families they serve.”
The project will evaluate student language development and teacher confidence throughout the grant period. Its long-term goal is to establish a sustainable network of ESOL educators and develop an evidence-based model that can be shared across South Carolina and beyond.
The grant period runs from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2031. Current Columbia College education students interested in participating should speak with their academic advisor about course registration.
About Columbia College
Founded in 1854, Columbia College educates women and men for lives of purpose, impact, and leadership. Through its “On the Rise” strategic plan, the College is expanding innovative programs, inquiry-based learning, and workforce-focused pathways in allied health, education, and the creative industries. An anchor institution in Columbia’s 29203 community, the College advances wellness, economic mobility, and opportunity through partnerships across the Midlands. With small classes, individualized support, and more than 30 undergraduate and eight graduate programs, Columbia College prepares students for careers of consequence.
