BASTROP, Texas — Several teachers and paraprofessionals at one Central Texas school district are surprised and concerned after finding out they took coursework that is not accredited.
To help fix teacher staffing shortages in Texas, school districts like Bastrop ISD offer information on programs that can help staff members earn their degrees to get certified as teachers while they work.
One Bastrop ISD employee, who did not want to be named due to fear of possible repercussions, enrolled at Hartwell University to get a bachelor's degree in Christian Education. However, she just discovered the school is not accredited.
"I'm having mixed feelings right now because of the fact of wanting to be a teacher so bad," she said. "I've spent almost two years and now it may not come true."
The situation has some employees left wondering what's next.
"I don't feel like ... If I did leave the district with that diploma, that certification, that I could go anywhere else because there's no guarantee that another employer would hire you with you being at an uncredited school," the employee said.
KVUE reached out to Hartwell University for an interview with President Matthew Flippen. The school sent back a statement that said in part, "Our website and catalog both clearly state that we are not currently accredited. In addition, our representative clearly stated in our in-person presentations that Hartwell is not currently accredited."
We also tried several times to speak to Kristi Lee, Bastrop ISD's deputy superintendent. Lee sent back the following statement:
"The program provided by Hartwell is one of several that we have provided information about, including Region 13, Grand Canyon University, Western Governors University, iTeach, and Huston-Tillotson University to name a few. Many of these, including Hartwell, have made presentations to our staff. Whether someone chooses to enroll and which program they choose is up to each employee.
Because Hartwell is a new university, Bastrop ISD is aware of their active pursuit of accreditation. We've stayed in communication with them regarding their progress, with the most recent update being that they presented to the accreditation commission in December and are anticipating a decision any day. We, and more than 100 other districts in Texas who have employees enrolled in Hartwell, are awaiting word of the commission's decision.
Some staff have shared concerns with the District about Hartwell's accreditation status. Our employees are very important to us, and we are working to address each person's unique situation. We will continue to support our aspiring teachers so that they can achieve their goals while making a difference in the lives of students."
Flippen also told KVUE that Hartwell University is in the final steps of accreditation and expects to make an announcement soon.