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Southwest University Launches New Teacher Training Program Amid Enrollment Decline

El Paso Matters•Monday, June 22, 2026 at 1:31 PM•Daniel Perez

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Southwest University is set to introduce a new College of Education in August 2026, aiming to address the projected loss of nearly 9,000 pre-K-12 students in El Paso County by 2030. The program will focus on training bilingual and special education teachers, responding to a persistent demand despite broader enrollment challenges. Targeting non-traditional students, particularly those in their 30s and 40s, the college plans to offer bachelor’s degrees in Education Elementary and Education Middle Grades, with classes available in the morning and evening. The initiative comes as local school districts face staffing shortages and financial difficulties, with recent layoffs affecting many teachers. Tuition is estimated at $50,000, with scholarships available through community partnerships.

Key Details: • New College of Education launches in August 2026. • Tuition estimated at $50,000; scholarships available. • Courses will include in-person and online elements. • Target audience includes non-traditional students and parents. • Initial enrollment expected to be 25-30 students.

education bilingual-education southwest-university special-education teacher-preparation

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El Paso CountyTexas Education AgencyXavier De La TorreWorkforce Solutions BorderplexSouthwest UniversityYsleta ISDSocorro ISDJeremy BurciagaSouthwest UniversityYsleta del Sur PuebloAnthony ISDSusana Arzate

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