Starting in the 2026–2027 school year, Central Tech will offer a new career program for high school juniors and seniors at the Drumright campus: Teacher Prep. The program is designed to give students a clear understanding of the teaching profession, meaningful classroom experience, and the confidence to pursue an education degree.

The new pathway comes at a time when Oklahoma continues to face a persistent need for trained teachers. “Our new Teacher Prep program helps address the critical need for passionate, well-prepared educators. By investing in future teachers now, we’re strengthening our local schools and building a brighter future for the students they will one day serve,” said Pam Whittenburg, assistant campus director.

Central Tech leaders say the program reflects a broader focus on strengthening the educator pipeline across the region. “Central Tech’s new Teacher Prep Program creates a career-aligned pathway with hands-on opportunities for aspiring teachers, showing our commitment to strengthening the regional teacher pipeline. This program also reflects our ongoing dedication to supporting the workforce needs of the communities we serve,” said LaDonna Gear, assistant superintendent.

Shane Bruce, Drumright Campus Director, emphasized the long-term impact of the program for students and schools alike. “Central Tech’s Teacher Prep program is more than a pathway – it’s a launchpad for the next generation of educators. By giving high school students real classroom experience and professional training, we are not only helping them turn their passion into a career, but also addressing Oklahoma’s critical need for more qualified teachers,” Bruce said.

This one-year program begins with a fall semester focused on hands-on learning and an inside look at the K–12 education system. Students will explore education through engaging lessons, projects and collaboration while studying topics such as foundations of education, child and adolescent development, classroom management, and educational ethics and professional conduct.

In the spring semester, students will shift into real-world experience through an internship in a partner K–12 school, working alongside licensed teachers to support classroom learning and gain day-to-day insight into the profession.

Central Tech is currently accepting applications for the first Teacher Prep class beginning in August 2026 at the Drumright campus. To learn more or apply for Teacher Prep here.