This project e focuses on the recruitment and retention of recent college graduates, mid-career professionals, and paraprofessionals who want to become certified teachers via an alternative licensure process. The project intends to graduate 60 participants during the five-year performance period and provide up to three years of related support services after participants begin teaching. During the first two years, the project supports participants via stipends, workshops, content based mentoring and on-site supervision. The project also provides extended support services after certification. Participants are supported up to $5,000 over the two-year licensing process ($1,250 a semester) and there is a repayment requirement for those who do not teach in high-need districts and schools. Although there is a preference for participants placed in rural settings, there is an option for urban participants who display a strong willingness to work in high-need districts and schools.