UCO, American Fidelity Partner to Remove Financial Barriers for Future Oklahoma Teachers
Feb. 12, 2026
University of Central Oklahoma students pursuing teaching degrees through the Paraprofessional Residency to Educator Pathway (PREP) will receive new financial support through a multi-semester investment from campus partner American Fidelity. The initiative supports working paraprofessionals as they complete their degrees and transition into certified teaching roles while continuing to serve Oklahoma classrooms.
The investment supports PREP students enrolled in UCO’s College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS), covering tuition, fees and student stipends to reduce financial barriers and allow participants to focus on completing their bachelor’s degrees in education and preparing for careers as certified teachers.
“This support directly impacts paraprofessionals who are already engaged as educators every day,” said Bryan Duke, Ph.D., dean of CEPS.
“By reducing financial strain, we are helping them move forward with confidence, complete their degrees leading to standard certification and transition into teaching roles where they are urgently needed.”
PREP serves paraprofessionals already working in public schools, many of whom support students in special education or bilingual settings. While balancing full-time employment and coursework, participants complete a structured, two-year pathway designed to remove financial barriers and align academic and practical learning with their ongoing classroom experience.
“American Fidelity believes in making a difference for those who show up and make a difference each and every day,” said Diana Bittle, chief operating officer at American Fidelity.
“This partnership is a win-win for everyone involved, as it provides an opportunity for the PREP students to continue their focus on providing much-needed support for students and families, while making it easier for them to become certified teachers, and it aligns with our goal of making a difference for educators in the community. We are very excited for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing program.”
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to education and strengthening Oklahoma’s teacher workforce through sustained collaboration.
“We are grateful for American Fidelity’s commitment and support in helping PREP students finish their degrees while minimizing personal debt and move into their own classrooms as well-prepared, certified teachers,” Duke said.
The PREP program launched its inaugural cohort in 2024 and continues to grow in response to statewide workforce needs. Graduates of the PREP program demonstrate a 90% retention rate after five years in the classroom, far exceeding alternative teacher preparation pathways.
For more information about the PREP program or partnership opportunities, visit go.uco.edu/prep.
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Cutline: University of Central Oklahoma students pursuing teaching degrees through the Paraprofessional Residency to Educator Pathway (PREP) will receive new financial support through a multi-semester investment from campus partner American Fidelity. The initiative supports working paraprofessionals as they complete their degrees and transition into certified teaching roles while continuing to serve Oklahoma classrooms. Pictured, UCO students Aria Booker, Karla Ware, Abner Vasquez and Elizabeth Ashford work with Darlinda Cassel, Ph.D., UCO professor of curriculum and instruction, on a hands-on math activity during an education class.
