PETOSKEY — North Central Michigan College (NCMC) and the University of Michigan–Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) announced a new “2+2” elementary education partnership, set to begin in Fall 2026. This program aims to expand access to teacher-preparation programs for Northern Michigan students while strengthening the region’s education workforce.
Beginning in Fall 2026, students will complete the first two years of their elementary education coursework at NCMC before finishing the final two years of their Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education online through UM-Dearborn. According to a Jan. 12 news release, this pathway eliminates the need to relocate by allowing students to complete required coursework and a student-teaching placement in nearby schools, making it more accessible for rural learners.
Vice President Stephen Strom for Academic and Student Affairs at NCMC, described the partnership as a thoughtful redesign of how future educators can progress through their preparation.
Danielle DeFauw, Professor of Reading and Language Arts and Chair of the Department of Education at UM-Dearborn, noted that the partnership aligns with the university’s commitment to preparing exemplary educators.
Michele Andrews, NCMC’s Dean of Business, Education and Adjunct Faculty, emphasized the value of developing future teachers who have a connection with local schools.
To learn more, visit NCMC’s programs page.