“ Teachers Ascend was founded to confront chronic teacher shortages in West Virginia’ s rural and underserved districts,” Alys says.“ By inviting teachers nationwide to relocate for a two-year program, it channels high-quality talent into classrooms that have historically struggled to recruit and retain educators. Candidates receive a $ 6,000 relocation stipend, up to $ 4,050 in tuition assistance through WVU, mentorship, professional development and concierge services to find additional summer employment— all intended to make relocation practical and sustainable.”
The program package makes relocating to the Mountain State not only affordable and practical but also incredibly appealing.
“ Teachers Ascend mirrors Ascend West Virginia’ s emphasis on outdoor adventure, social connection and quality-of-life experiences— things that help newcomers feel rooted in community and less isolated,” Alys says.“ Cohorts participate in social gatherings, outdoor initiatives and peer support networks that foster belonging and community investment. By blending incentives, connection and institutional support, Teachers Ascend is strengthening the educator talent pipeline— anchoring individuals in communities where they live, teach and contribute over the long term.”
Another organization that has been highly influential in Teachers Ascend is the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation. The organization has been grantmaking for 80 years and is committed to supporting educational systems.
“ As we partnered with state and local education leaders, the urgent need to attract and retain talented educators was evident,” says Melanie Claxton, senior program officer of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.“ In response to this need, we proudly invested in the vision for Teachers Ascend and continue to work alongside the West Virginia Department of Education, the WVPEC and other key partners to see the initiative take shape.”
Teachers Ascend’ s pilot year has wrapped up and is being evaluated for its success; however, initial teacher feedback has been very positive.
Cohort members traverse Morgantown’ s Zipline Aerial Adventure.
Cohort members gather before biking Morgantown’ s Rail Trail.
“ As someone who loves the outdoors, I was immediately drawn to the natural beauty and adventure that West Virginia has to offer,” says Christian Ostrander, kindergarten teacher at Preston Elementary School and Teachers Ascend participant.“ From whitewater rafting and kayaking to scenic hikes and bike trails, the state feels like an outdoor paradise. When I discovered the Teachers Ascend program, it felt like the perfect fit: a chance to connect with other passionate, like-minded educators while building a strong sense of community in a new and exciting place.”
It’ s not just the adventure aspect Ostrander loves; he also feels the program has played an important role in helping him launch his teaching career. He has felt supported through mentorship, resources and a strong professional network. Other program participants share similar views.
“ Teachers Ascend has helped me in so many ways,” says Andrea Mulligan, classroom music teacher and choral director at South Middle School.“ Socially, I have made many friends, one of which is my teaching mentor, who was assigned to me through Ascend. She has been invaluable to me in learning to navigate teaching in a new state and a new grade level. Ascend has created a community of educators who work together to grow, learn and better ourselves.”
Another program participant echoes Mulligan’ s sentiment while also sharing how this program is a way to truly impact West Virginia’ s schools and communities.
“ Teachers Ascend has so many opportunities for members,” says Drew Calandrelli, a math teacher at Morgantown High School.“ While the financial incentives are great, it offers so much more. First and foremost, it has furthered my career by bringing me back to a school where I really feel I can make an impact on students. West Virginia is an amazing state, but we are not without our issues. Education is the great equalizer in society, and I believe education is a major part of addressing the issues our state faces. Teachers Ascend is doing amazing work bringing in teachers to help with this goal.” •
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