New program supports the need for more teachers and nurses in Sheboygan
FORWARD highlights the strengths of both institutions while directly impacting the needs of the local labor force
SHEBOYGAN — Lakeshore College and UWGB Sheboygan announced a new program that will allow students wishing to pursue a teaching or nursing degree to seamlessly study at both institutions.
The FORWARD program supports students in the Sheboygan area, saving both time and money for each student while allowing them to stay within the region and meet local workforce needs. All classes are offered locally at the Lakeshore College Cleveland Campus, the UWGB Sheboygan Campus and online.
The sharing of resources provides students who enroll in the program a local solution to a four-year degree in high-demand fields. FORWARD highlights the strengths of both institutions while directly impacting the needs of the local labor force. Demand for nurses and teachers remains high.
For example, in the Lakeshore District alone the projected growth for kindergarten, elementary and middle school teachers is 5% compared to only 1% projected growth in the state. For registered nurses, projected growth is 4%, representing a critical need locally.
“The FORWARD program meets the needs of our community by not only addressing the teacher shortage that school districts across our community face but also by providing opportunities for our students to enter the fields of education and nursing,” said Dr. Jacob Konrath, Superintendent of the Sheboygan Area School District. “Affordable pathways to teaching and nursing aren’t just about dollars saved – they’re about doors opened, ensuring passionate individuals can answer the vital call to serve our communities.”
Providing an affordable, locally accessible option for students interested in education and nursing removes barriers to degree pursuit and creates a clear educational pipeline. Dual-enrollment high school students, recent graduates or those already in the workforce have a seamless option to move from college to a career in critical fields. The FORWARD program creates a pathway to success for students and employers.
“It has become very evident in recent years that our country is facing a significant nursing shortage that truly can only be met by training more people in the profession,” said Dr. Ashok Rai, President and CEO of Prevea Health. “This partnership leverages two great educational institutions coming together to meet that need. Sheboygan County is lucky to have both institutions focused on meeting the needs of its citizens.”
This forward-thinking partnership directly impacts the local community. Students have the opportunity to begin by earning their associate degree with Lakeshore in Cleveland or at the UW-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus, and finish with a bachelor’s degree at UW-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus. For the first time in this area, interested students can receive an affordable four-year teaching or nursing degree from a public university close to home.
For more information, visit lakeshoretouwgb.com.
Follow WKTS News on Facebook and X for the latest local news.