California Teacher Credential Program Empowers Educators

A Partnership Between Sierra Schools and the University of the Pacific

Five years ago, leadership at the Sierra School of California recognized a pressing challenge: a shortage of highly qualified special education teachers. In response, administrators formed a strategic partnership with the University of the Pacific (UOP) to provide teachers with a clear pathway to advanced credentials while continuing to work full-time.

Inside the Teacher Credential Program in California

Through this program, teachers complete a 12-month, fully virtual Master of Arts in Teaching + Credential program with an emphasis in special education. Participants earn two teaching credentials (mild/moderate and moderate/severe) and English learners and autism authorizations, in addition to their master’s degree in education. A bachelor’s degree in any field is a program prerequisite.

Courses are delivered online in the evenings, with intensive fall and spring terms (10–15 hours per week). Student teaching or internships are supported by CAPSES (California Association of Private School Education Services), ensuring placements meet California credentialing requirements.

“We wanted to remove barriers for teachers passionate about special education,” said Brittany Auernig, Ed.D., Ed.S., assistant dean and assistant professor of practice at UOP and former Sierra School director. Auernig helped develop the partnership after recognizing the urgent need for qualified teachers in nonpublic schools.

Accessible and Affordable Pathway to Special Education Credentials

The program is financially accessible: UOP offers a 50% tuition discount, while Sierra reimburses most of the remainder, making it nearly free for most participants. Additional support may come from the Golden State Teacher Grant for up to $20,000, depending on eligibility.

Real Success Stories from Sierra Educators

Since the program’s launch, roughly 40 Sierra educators from seven campuses have participated, with many advancing into leadership roles after earning their advanced degree.

Jennifer Thames, lead teacher at Sierra School of Solano, switched careers from accounting to teaching, motivated by her personal experience as a mother of a child with autism. She completed the program online while teaching full-time.

“This program was extremely applicable to my daily work. Professors understood our students and challenges; it wasn’t busywork. I could apply what I learned immediately in my classroom,” Thames said. “I passed my exams on the first try because I focused on teaching kids, not the test.”

ZsaNean Lang, lead teacher at Sierra School of Sacramento, described the program as both rigorous and supportive. Her favorite project was the “literacy box,” which allowed her to bring stories to life for her students while collaborating with other teachers across California.

“It’s important that teachers have both the heart and the training to provide students with the education they deserve. The program gives us the tools and strategies to make a real difference in our students’ lives,” Lang said.

Supporting Retention and Professional Growth in Special Education

Teachers commit to staying at Sierra for at least two years to receive full tuition reimbursement, which supports staff retention and professional growth.

“At a time when retaining teachers, particularly in special education, has become increasingly difficult, this partnership represents a truly sustainable solution,” said Lisa Maher, M.A., regional director for Sierra Schools in Northern California and UOP professor. “This collaboration empowers teachers to grow, lead, and stay rooted in a career that changes lives. Both theirs and their students’.”

Building Community and Collaboration Among Teachers

The program also fosters community and collaboration among teachers. Through shared experiences, educators discuss strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and build professional networks.

“We want teachers to know they’re not on an island,” Auernig said. “The program gives them the tools to succeed, support from peers, and the confidence to lead classrooms and even take on director-level roles.”

The Future of the Sierra–UOP Partnership

The University of the Pacific partnership continues to evolve. In the future, it will offer more flexible, asynchronous options for teachers balancing multiple responsibilities; create programs for paraprofessionals to complete bachelor’s and master’s degrees in two years; and strengthen relationships among teachers for mentorship, collaboration, and emotional support.

“Our mission is simple: We will never give up on a student or a child,” Maher said. “By investing in our teachers, we ensure every student has access to highly qualified, committed educators who can meet their unique needs.”