Drury secures $70K grant

Drury University has secured a $70,000 grant to address a teacher shortage in Monett.

The funding goes toward the Monett campus of Drury GO, which stands for global and online, according to a news release. The Missouri Developing an Educator Workforce that Expands Yearly awards included Drury.

Drury will use the funding to provide scholarships for 12 students in its bachelor's degree in elementary education program, which launched at the Monett campus in August. It also will go toward recruitment materials and events to promote the program.

“With a substantial teacher shortage in Missouri, we are thrilled about this grant and its potential to enhance accessibility to education for aspiring teachers," said Natalie Precise, dean of Drury’s School of Education and Child Development, in the release. "These scholarships are designed for students managing family and community responsibilities, enabling them to work during the day and pursue their degrees through evening and online courses at our Monett campus. This flexibility ensures they can balance their commitments while advancing their education."

The elementary education program in Monett works with the Monett R-1 School District.

Students can apply for the scholarship in spring 2024, according to the release.