Trine adds educational opportunities for DeKalb Eastern Community School District staff

BUTLER, Ind. — Knowing that supporting its staff is a key element to its commitment to excellence and focus on students, DeKalb County Eastern Community School District has entered into a partnership with Trine University.

“As the needs for teachers continue to grow, we are always looking for new ways to support our current staff in their continuing education. This is just one more way we can help,” Shane Conwell, Ph.D., superintendent of DeKalb County Eastern Community School District, said.

The new agreement will allow DeKalb Eastern, which includes Eastside Jr./Sr. High School and Butler Elementary in Butler as well as Riverdale Elementary in St. Joe, to provide its employees more options for professional development and easier access to a variety of degree programs.

Trine is developing graduate programs in education in addition to the associate, bachelor’s and master’s programs it already offers through TrineOnline. DeKalb Eastern CSD staff members in all departments will receive the benefits given to all TrineOnline students, including free application for enrollment and unofficial transfer credit evaluation. Trine also offers more than 45 courses using open education resources, eliminating textbook and materials costs.

“DeKalb Eastern, just like Trine University, works to prepare students to succeed, lead and serve. It’s a privilege to partner with and support an organization whose focus so closely mirrors our own,” said Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine University president. “By working together, we can do even more to equip the district’s employees, thereby further enhancing the education of students in eastern DeKalb County.”

Trine has previously partnered with DeKalb Eastern through the STEM with Storm program and dual enrollment opportunities for its students. Through this new partnership, DeKalb Eastern will receive benefits for its staff, such as a complimentary professional development course and access to customized courses, available both online and on-site. Trine also is working with DeKalb to develop additional pathways for professional development for all its employees, allowing more co-workers to advance into teaching positions.

DeKalb Eastern co-workers also will be provided additional support in obtaining access to available educational grants and scholarships, reducing tuition reimbursement expenses and allowing DeKalb Eastern to maximize its impact on staff education.

Additionally, DeKalb Eastern team members will receive added support to ensure employees who take coursework at Trine are utilizing all available academic and financial aid services.

Trine will also offer DeKalb Eastern enhanced opportunities to recruit Trine students and alumni for open positions and share information regarding its available services. The district also will gain access to a broader range of community activities with student organizations, athletics and various exclusive Trine events, including job fairs and classroom activities.

For more information on educational partnership opportunities with Trine University, visit trine.edu/online/partnerships.

Last Updated: 12/14/2021