News Stories

Congratulations to the First Cohort of Paraprofessional Pathways Graduates

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 17, 2022

By: Kelsey Claus

Congratulations to these 36 students for earning their undergraduate degrees through the Paraprofessional Pathways Project as the program’s first cohort. Since the students are slated to complete their coursework later this summer, they were invited to participate in the Spring 2022 commencement ceremonies. Upon completion of the program, they will continue with the licensing process and eventually begin teaching in early childhood, elementary, or special education classrooms of their own.

  • D’Angelo Brown
  • Ingrid Cajabon
  • Britany Paige Cameron-Winn
  • Kira Carillo
  • Krystal Clark
  • Rezan Clemons
  • Melanie Cook
  • Stacy Davis
  • Jacqueline Flores
  • Sarisha Flowers
  • Leslie Galarza-Luna
  • Shanice Glover
  • Sharaleen Gore
  • Shaquelle Holland
  • Antoinette Iardella
  • Tamra Jackson
  • Jessica Landeros
  • Alexzandria Lawler
  • Melinda Leake
  • Jamie Lohmeyer
  • Rodrigo Mendoza Gutierrez
  • Ethan Mills
  • Zulma Munoz
  • Alex Najarro
  • Ambershay Nezey
  • Dora Ramirez
  • Belia Rasmussen
  • Maria Romero
  • Lidia Sibrian
  • Eric Spaight
  • Amy Stewart Baxter
  • Jamie Sullivan
  • Lushawn Threats
  • Kimberly Winn
  • Gabriel Ybarra
  • Noelle Young

About the program:

The UNLV College of Education’s Paraprofessional Pathways Project (PPP) provides a fast-track, high-quality pathway for paraprofessionals and school support professionals to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in education and complete qualifications for teacher licensure in a single academic year.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 17, 2023

By: COE Communications Staff

For high school seniors across the country, the wait is finally over. After months of filling out applications, writing essays, and nervously refreshing their email inboxes, students are holding their breath and hoping for the acceptance letter that could change their lives. They’ll share the news with friends, family, perhaps even post a reaction video on TikTok. And after all the chaos settles, students are likely to share the news with someone who was a catalyst for their success in the application process and will be their greatest asset as they begin to apply for scholarships, their school counselor.

Eboni Hodge, ‘07 M.Ed. Educational Psychology, is one of those counselors. Whether her impact is made in a student’s personal or academic life, she’s a natural motivator with a legacy that is a testament to her positive influence. This is why she is a two-time nominee and now the 2023 Nevada School Counselor of the Year.  

The Power of Positive Influences

It was always Eboni’s goal to have a career that involved helping others. While it wasn’t her initial choice, the idea of working in education wasn’t foreign. Eboni’s mom was an administrative assistant with the magnet programs for Oakland public schools and her paternal great-grandfather was a long-time administrator. 

It was under the guidance of an amazing college and scholarship counselor at Oakland Technical High School that her career path became more clear. Mrs. Rivera-Gurley, much like Mrs. Hodge, led by example. By making herself available to answer young Eboni’s endless questions and assisting her with all her scholarship applications, making college financially attainable, her graciousness left a lasting impression.

Eboni didn’t just take the guidance Mrs. Rivera-Gurley had to offer, she paid it forward by sharing it with her peers. She quickly found she really enjoyed working with the high school’s counseling department. As a student who benefited from the resources and encouraged other students to do the same, Eboni unintentionally set out on a path to becoming a counselor herself.

Forging a Clear Path

In her sophomore and junior years of college, everything came together. Eboni knew without a doubt that she wanted to be a school counselor and therapist. She now holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology, a Master of Arts in counseling psychology and finally completed a Master of Education in educational psychology here at UNLV. 

During her time on campus, she collaborated and learned alongside peers who she is now proud to call colleagues. In true Eboni fashion, just receiving her master’s wasn’t enough. In gratitude for her time here as a student, she reinvests in the community by serving as a site supervisor for school counselor interns from UNLV.

Eboni balances academics, motherhood, and her career, in her current role. She served as a psychiatric caseworker, juvenile probation officer, and family services specialist before finally becoming a CCSD professional school counselor, where she has served more than 14 years.

Cultivating Growth and Achievement

By advocating for resources like the College and Career Center at Legacy High School, Eboni ensured that recruiters and students would have a dedicated space to exchange information about post-secondary pathways. Uniquely as the current college and career counselor Eboni allows students to diligently weigh their options, including military and trade school enrollment. She encourages her students to set goals and celebrates their achievements with great pride. Her most recent project was to implement a display case that recognizes Legacy HS seniors and highlights their post-secondary choices. 

Eboni has supported students through hundreds of college and financial aid applications, with one of her students securing the highly coveted Bill and Melinda Gates scholarship. Two of this year’s seniors were accepted into Ivy League schools, Penn State and Yale. She has seen countless first-generation students forge new paths and saluted others as they pursued careers in the military.

It was inevitable that she would eventually be recognized as a leader in her field. Of course, for one as humble as Eboni nothing is ever assumed. Mrs. Hodge recalls, “I was in complete shock and tears because it means a lot when your colleagues truly see you and acknowledge what you do for students and families.” 

Leaving a Legacy Beyond Legacy HS

Not much has changed since being awarded the title and representing Nevada at the national celebration in Washington, DC. Eboni continues to maintain a healthy work-life balance and looks forward to achieving more of her personal and professional goals. She plans to get Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, enjoy good food with family and friends, continue to make Tik-Tok videos with her daughter, and embark on more solo trips.

Eboni’s legacy is a testament to her kindness and belief in her students. Her tenacious and caring spirit is felt by everyone around her. Former student Chanel Davidson is now a fellow high school college counselor. “I looked up to Mrs. Hodge not only as a counselor but also as a strong black woman with a successful career,” said Chanel. “Today, my goal is to give my students the same love and encouragement Mrs. Hodge gives her students.”

Relationships like this, baby shower and wedding invitations are proof of the lasting impact she has had on the lives of many. Her goal to help others in everything she does has been realized ten times over. The College of Education celebrates her and her story and the legacy she continues to build at Legacy HS and across the Las Vegas Valley.

Alumni Spotlight: Tovah Gordon ‘23

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 21, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Tovah Gordon

Degree: Class of 2023 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Role: Field Coordinator and Research Analyst at the University of Nevada, Reno

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue your degree in higher education?

While I did my undergrad in Washington, I always wanted to explore the education programs at UNLV. I moved back to Las Vegas due to COVID-19, a blessing in disguise because I noticed that UNLV had more of a community, and all signs pointed toward the College of Education programs. I wanted to be more involved with multicultural education and representing local heritage.

What is your current position, and how did UNLV prepare you for your career?

I started working as a Field Coordinator and Research analyst at the University of Nevada, Reno, right after completing my master’s. I’m involved with the local environment while collecting data from evaluations of childcare projects and practices. UNLV has provided me with a sense of community, which has still stuck with me. My ultimate goal is to return and earn my Ph.D.

Fun facts about yourself? Favorite class at UNLV?

I was born and raised in Las Vegas and enjoy making pottery. My favorite classes were the incorporation of ethnic studies and cultural studies in education. Also, disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline.

Why should alums stay engaged at UNLV?

Alums should maintain bonds and relationships that continue even after graduation while increasing their contacts and connections with the university. Plus, it gives you chances to attend events and be involved.


Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

Getting and Sharing Seats at the Table: Lisa Kelleher’s Impact and Legacy at UNLV

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 21, 2025

By: Kia Cummings

People don’t dedicate their entire careers to one place like they used to. In the early 90s, it was even more uncommon for a woman to work in intercollegiate athletics. Rare as it is, Lisa Kelleher has been one-of-a-kind in many of the rooms and positions she has held in her over 30 years of service to UNLV. “Perseverance over persistence” has driven her forward. Now, as she prepares for retirement for a second time, her impact will continue to be felt by students who receive the Lisa Kelleher Intercollegiate Professional Sport Management (IPSM) Legacy Scholarship.

The scholarship honors her remarkable career. A dedicated leader in both Athletics and the College of Education’s IPSM program, Lisa has been a tireless advocate for women’s sports, helping restore NCAA volleyball, and adding women’s soccer and golf. She also played a vital role on UNLV’s Women’s Council and numerous campus committees, giving a voice to those female athletes and members of the university community.

When reflecting on her life, career, and future hopes for the program, this is what she had to say:

How did growing up in your family’s clothing and sporting goods store influence your passion for athletics?

 “It was where everyone gathered on Monday to rehash the previous Friday night football game. When I was put out on the sales floor to work with my brothers, I didn’t know any differently. We all worked, played basketball, softball, baseball—whatever. I was included right away.” While most girls her age were discouraged from sports in favor of more traditionally feminine roles, Lisa escaped the typecasting. In her mind, women always belonged in athletics.  

Throughout your career, you’ve held the titles of deputy and associate athletic director, senior woman administrator (SWA), part-time instructor, and now visiting associate professor. What role shaped you the most?

“First and foremost was my role as senior woman administrator,” she beamed. Within the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), only four people get a seat at the table. The president, the athletic director, the faculty athletic rep, and the senior woman administrator. “It’s kind of a misnomer and glass ceiling position, because it assumes that the senior woman will never be the athletic director,” she said frankly. “But I always teach my students, you’ve got to get access to the table—get in the room. So, while maybe self-limiting, it was the pivotal and beneficial role for me because I got to go to all the NCAA conventions and Mountain West Conference meetings and was even on the Football Bowl Selection Committee.” In these spaces, Lisa learned to accept different perspectives, foster collaboration, and drive change.

What do you consider your proudest achievement?

“The establishment of three of our women’s volleyball, soccer, and golf programs,” she said, not missing a beat. In ‘96, ‘98, and ‘01, UNLV faced a problem. The university’s sports program numbers were unbalanced, violating Title IX compliance. Knowing that cutting back men’s programs would be a tough sell, Lisa worked hard to advocate for new and improved opportunities for women. “The intention was not to cut the guy’s sports in half. It was to go double. Volleyball was brought back, and added two new programs,” she explained. 

This doubling up was easier said than done. Many of the men’s programs were worried that their money would be taken, they would lose access, or worse, have to share practice and playing facilities with women’s programs. “I worked with coaches saying, ‘If you’re currently getting three hours of tee time, I’m going to ask for six. If you get $50,000 from this group, I’m not going to ask them to split it, I’m going to ask them to donate $50,000 more.’ When they asked how they were going to share a space, I said, ‘We’re going to build new men’s and women’s practice fields.’” Lisa recounted tapping into her tactful negotiation skills and a kill-them-with-kindness mentality. “We will work it out,” she repeatedly assured them, and work it out she did. 

The IPSM program was born out of a need to equip the next generation of professionals slated to lead the rapidly growing sport landscape in Las Vegas. What drew you to get involved in its continued development?

The college previously had a sports educational leadership Ph.D. program that dissolved in the early 2000s. Back then, Nancy Lough and Lisa were colleagues, respectively bridging the academic and administrative aspects of sport on campus. “When Nancy started to develop the program, I had already retired from athletics and was teaching first- and second-year seminars.” As the program was developing, the two talked about different opportunities, including Lisa teaching in these graduate-level courses. 

“I taught several courses, but my favorite was eSports. I’m most proud of that,” she said with a chuckle. “Dr. Lough came to me one semester and said, you know, we want to start teaching eSports—it seems like a big thing out here. I’m like, ‘eSports? I don’t even play video games.” She asked Dr. Lough to give her a week or two to do some research to consider what the curriculum might look like. Lisa called up her daughter’s friends, asking them to bring their gaming consoles and computers to her house and teach her more about it. “Tell me what I’m doing. Tell me why you’re doing it and what the interest is, and then what would you like to learn?” she asked them. “I listened to them, and a week and a half later, agreed to teach the class.”

You’ve praised the local sports community for offering student growth, learning, and employment opportunities for students through internships and more. How can they continue to contribute to the program’s success, helping in its growth and development? 

“I always say, it’s about access and funding. Before anything else, we need the money to grow the program.” Scholarships are another way that financial support can help improve access for students. “We want our students to be able to get in the door so the next generation can start driving decisions.” Adamant about opening doors for her students, like the advocates she had at every step of her career, we hope to honor her legacy with this new scholarship. 

Rooted in Vegas: Bridging Student-Athlete Success, Community Building and Higher Education at UNLV

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 30, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

Like many high school students, Native Nevadan Jozee Dean wanted nothing more than to escape her hometown to experience college life elsewhere. But after countless recruitment visits to other cities, the budding soccer player realized there is truly no place like Las Vegas. Coupled with the convenience of being close to her family, Jozee ultimately chose to study at UNLV. 

Now, as a proud two-time College of Education alumna with both a bachelor of science in human services and a master of science in higher education, Jozee reflects on her journey with a sense of pride and gratitude.

A Major Change

When she started at UNLV in the fall of 2017, she was set on becoming a physical therapist, majoring in kinesiology. But during her sophomore year, Jozee had a change of heart. “I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I didn’t want to be a physical therapist,” she admits.

The uncertainty of choosing a new major led her to seek guidance from her advisor, Alan Hott. “The way that Alan cared and helped me navigate through a change in majors was incredible,” Jozee recalls. Having an advocate who was empathetic and listened to what she was saying helped to guide her in the right direction.

Jozee remembers the moment when it all came together for her. She told Alan “I want to do your job and help other athletes the way that you have helped me.” With his help, she switched her major to human services, finding the perfect bridge between higher education and athletics.

Setting a Path for Leadership through Service

Looking back, Jozee had always been a community engagement leader. In high school, she was involved in student council; at UNLV she was a student-athlete as well as a graduate assistant for the NCAA’s Compliance office. These intentional investments of her time would eventually lay the foundation for her future career.

Jozee’s time at UNLV is marked by service, not just as a student-athlete but also as a leader who wanted to make an impact on the growth of the university. Jozee recognizes that, “UNLV helped build Vegas, and it’s very much a part of the city’s growth.” She contributed to this effort as a member of the student-athlete advisory committee, advocating for her peers while connecting with athletics administration offices across the country.

Kicking Off her Career and the UNLV Soccer Alumni Club

As it is for many Rebels, graduation did not mark the end of her time on campus. “There’s a lot of pride in being a double grad of the College of Education and to be a part of the university’s history,” she says. Jozee continues her journey at UNLV, transitioning from a student to an assistant director of compliance. In her new role, she works with the men’s and women’s tennis teams, golf, and women’s volleyball, ensuring they adhere to NCAA regulations.

Jozee is also involved in the UNLV Soccer Alumni Club, where she serves as their treasurer. “It’s in its infancy stage and growing,” Jozee notes. “But it’s great to be part of something that supports the sport and the community.” Her commitment to the initiative is a testament to her desire to give back to the community that shaped her.

Looking to the future, Jozee hopes to continue contributing to UNLV’s development and dreams of leading the athletics department one day. “I want to put my foot in the door so it’s open for other people behind me.” As she continues to make her mark at UNLV, Jozee’s story is a shining example of what it means to be a Rebel forever with an unwavering commitment to her alma mater and her hometown.

When it all Clicks: Aliya Ojuade’s Journey through UNLV’s New IT Pipeline Program

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 6, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

Aliya Ojuade, a senior at Rancho High School, is not your average teenager. With a passion for technology and a drive to excel, she’s set her sights on a future where possibilities are limitless.

Starting from Scratch  

Aliya’s journey began with an itch of sorts. “I was always interested in computer science,” she recalls. “When I was younger, I casually learned coding through a program called Scratch, where I got to make games online for fun.” This early exposure planted a seed of curiosity that would grow into love for all things digital.

Nowadays her screen time isn’t all fun and games, but Aliya is driven by a desire to turn her passion into a career. From enrolling in advanced placement courses to exploring coding languages, she eagerly embraces every opportunity to delve deeper into the world of technology. So, when the chance arose to apply for UNLV’s Information Technology (IT) Pipeline Project, she seized it with unwavering determination. 

Getting a Head Start through Dual-Enrollment

Hosted by UNLV’s College of Education, the unique dual-enrollment program allows high school students to earn college credits and develop critical skills for the IT field. In 2023, Nevada’s Department of Employment Training and Rehabilitation and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State Plan identified IT as the state’s top ranking in-demand industry. 

Principal investigator of the grant funded program, Dr. Xue (Cher) Xing, heard the call and  knew she had to answer. She joined forces with College of Engineering colleagues Yingtao Jiang and Mei Yang,, and Hasan Deniz, director of COE’s Center for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education. 

“Nevada needs a workforce pipeline program that attracts and retains local talent, “Cher explains “This is the first program of its kind in the state, offering comprehensive curriculum and activities that lead to IT options for postsecondary education and employment.”

Offered to high school juniors and seniors who’ve had some exposure to the IT field, the program is a year-long immersive and accelerated learning experience. Students gather on UNLV’s campus each Saturday to complete two college courses, three IT workshops, and participate in industry certification exam preparation. In the Spring they work towards a final project showcase, attend a career fair, and apply their knowledge in the summer with an 8-10 week paid internship.

Discovering New Career Paths

For Aliya, the program symbolized more than just an educational opportunity. “Now, being in this program, I have a way to propel myself into the computer science field,” she expressed, proud to be one of 30 students in the first group. “It means a lot to be selected and be on track to fulfill my childhood dreams of working in the field.” With each milestone she achieves, Aliya’s passion for technology only grows stronger. From creating her first website to exploring artificial intelligence technologies to learning C++, a new coding language, her horizons continue to expand. 

Though she came to the program interested in computer science, industry field trips to the City of Las Vegas International Innovation Center and other worksites have revealed new avenues of opportunity. “Since visiting the Las Vegas Valley Water District, my interests have shifted,” she shares. “I actually changed the certification I wanted to get through this program to the [cyber] security plus one, instead of computer science.”

Embracing Real World Learning Opportunities

Over the last seven months, Aliya has embraced challenges with tenacity and resilience. As she continues through the program, her vision for the future has become more clear. Her short-term goal is to gain hands-on experience through an internship with industry partner Aristocrat Gaming. “I’m hoping to learn more about cybersecurity through the internship and how it applies to real-world situations in the gaming industry. While we have learned about it and how it works, I think it’s different from actually seeing it in the real world versus just in class.” 

Cher knows how critical highly-coveted tech internship opportunities are to setting students up for IT career success. “Our employer partners truly invest in our students and offer competitive wages, professional mentorship, and real-world projects to accelerate the work-based learning experience for students.” This level of commitment is paramount to students’ success and creating a robust local workforce. 

Looking at a Bright Future

Today, as Aliya stands on the precipice of a bright future. “Aliya has set a great example for all students interested in STEM majors.” praised Mei. “When given support and opportunities like this, future female students like her will continue to shine as their male peers.”  Dr. Yang and her colleagues hope to see more female students benefit from this STEM pipeline project. 

With acceptance letters from prestigious universities like Georgia Tech in hand, Aliya prepares to embark on the next chapter of her adventure. “Because of this program, I was able to narrow my STEM interests and won’t have to change things up in the middle of college.” With her story representing just one student’s experience, this program could pave the way for a new and diverse generation of STEM professionals.

Alumni Spotlight: Leonardo Macias ‘22

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 7, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Leonardo Macias

Degree: Class of 2022 BS Human Services

Current Role: Family Service Specialist – State of Nevada, Division of Welfare and Supportive Services

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue a degree in Human Services?

I’m a Las Vegas native and a first-generation college student. I attended college because I wanted to show my siblings that going and graduating was possible. I enrolled as a music major but shifted to human services because I wanted to help people and feel more involved, which aligned with my passion for being a therapist and wanting to help others with their problems.

What were you involved with at UNLV? What was your proudest moment?

I was involved with various clubs, such as Omega Delta Phi, and took part in community service events. I also participated in the UNLV Latino Youth Leadership Conference, where they introduced higher education to students.

What is your current position, and how did UNLV prepare you for your career?

I work for the State of Nevada as a Family Service Specialist, helping others with government programs such as SNAP, TANF, and serving as a welfare officer. UNLV provided an applicable curriculum such as counseling experience and reading and analyzing important policy information.

What advice would you give to current students at UNLV?

Take a bet on yourself and view your education as a long-term investment in your future.

Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

School Psychology Bestows its First Alumna of the Year to Dr. Keri Altig

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 9, 2023

By: Arianna Elias

On April 28, 2023, the UNLV School Psychology program honored Dr. Keri Altig as the inaugural School Psychology Alumna of the Year.

With a remarkable record of service spanning over 13 years, Dr. Altig is a psychological services coordinator for the Clark County School District. Having completed her undergraduate studies at UNLV, she earned her Ed.S. and Ph.D. in special education.* While embarking on her current role, Dr. Altig has taught for the school psychology program in the Department of Counselor Education, School Psychology, and Human Services and continues coordinating and leading seminars for students at UNLV.

Dr. Altig’s exceptional leadership qualities and expertise has earned her widespread admiration from local school psychologists.“She is well-known by all local school psychologists, is highly respected for her leadership and expertise, and has given back to UNLV year after year,” says associate professor Dr. Katherine Lee, who nominated her. 

She actively participates in giving back to UNLV and ensures that students receive the highest level of training. She is a valuable link between CCSD and UNLV’s school psychology program, connecting trainees with site-based supervisors for field experience practice and internships. In addition, she has taught for the program and continues coordinating and leading seminars for students at UNLV. 

Dr. Altig’s unwavering dedication to the field is evident in her outstanding service, making her a true inspiration for anyone seeking to make a difference. Dr. Lee explains, “We are so grateful for her dedication, her wisdom, and her heart, as she fosters and supports the growth of all our students, the CCSD-UNLV relationship, and the field’s reputation.”

About the Award

The UNLV School Psychology Alumni of the Year award recognizes graduates of the school psychology program (Ed.S. or Ph.D.). The award is given to an alumnus/a who has demonstrated a history of outstanding service to the field, program, UNLV, and/or the community in which they reside. Celebrating alumni is paramount as they continue contributing significantly to the community after their education. In addition, their achievements serve as a source of inspiration for the present and future generations.

*At the time, school psychology was an area of focus within the special education doctoral program.

Looking Forward to another Rebel Start Summer

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: May. 9, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

High school students explore life choices and opportunities in the Rebel Start early college program.

College isn’t just for college students anymore. This past summer, the College of Education welcomed a cohort of high schoolers to UNLV to get a sneak peek into college life via the Rebel Start summer program. One of last year’s students was Victor Macias, Jr. 

The Western High School senior was initially hesitant at the idea of college, but thanks to the program, he’s broadened his perspective. Rebel Start is not any ordinary summer camp. It’s a transformative journey that empowers young individuals like Victor to embrace higher education, consider different career paths, discover their potential, and navigate life with newfound confidence.

In its inaugural year, the program attracted more than 130 eager high school students, most of whom come from Title I schools. These highly motivated students, who often lack access to early college opportunities, earn UNLV college credits at a reduced rate while enrolled at their Southern Nevada high school. 

More Than Lectures and Labs

The new dual enrollment program also aims to create experiences that focus on students’ overall personal development. “We target programs that deal with students’ understanding of mental health and self-actualization,” explains Sebern Coleman, director of educator preparation.

With the help of partners like Jobs for Nevada Grads and federal TRIO Programs, students are offered a wide range of activities that encourage them to pursue interests, set individual goals, and embark on journeys of self-examination.

Victor’s experience is proof that the program’s curriculum is a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. “I wasn’t sure if going to college was for me. This program helped me to identify going to college as one of my future goals.” Until then, Victor serves as class president and intends to enlist into the military, another post-secondary path highlighted in the program.

Gaining New Perspectives and Practical Life Skills

Throughout the program Victor and his cohort stepped outside of their comfort zones, discussing their multicultural experiences and equity issues that have affected them.

Looking toward their futures, students learned practical budgeting and financial planning skills. When students consider the financial outcomes of their life and career choices, they get a  valuable reality check about how their paychecks will match up to their housing and lifestyle aspirations.

Sharing their Experiences

Victor was quick to share his experience with his peers. This is how Rebel Start continues to grow. Marquis, another Western High School student, agreed. “Seeing my friend do the program, pass, and actually learn new things about the college experience was eye-opening. It made me want to have those same experiences.” 

By expanding its reach beyond the summer months and exploring opportunities to collaborate with high schools during the academic year, Rebel Start is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of young minds. As the program continues to evolve, its commitment to fostering growth and empowerment remains steadfast, creating a brighter future for students from all walks of life. 

About UNLV’s College of Education Early College Programs

Early college opportunities are academic programs in which high school students earn college credit while in high school at a reduced tuition rate. These programs are hosted during the academic year and over summer. Learn more about early college programs, including dual enrollment, Rebel Teach, and Rebel Start Academy.

Paraprofessional Pathways Project celebrates 36 new educators headed to Southern NV schools

July 22, 2026

Originally posted: Jun. 15, 2022

By: Kelsey Claus

Underscoring its commitment to add more qualified educators into the workforce, the college proudly to recognizes the first cohort of our Paraprofessional Pathways Project (PPP) graduates. This fall, southern Nevada public schools will have 36 new educators leading K-12 classrooms thanks to the program

A critical measure as our communities continue to diversify, more than 75% of these educators are from historically underrepresented backgrounds mirroring the racial diversity of students in southern Nevada. All 36 educators plan to stay in southern Nevada, with 14 serving in elementary schools, 11 in special education settings, and 11 in early childhood programs.

Prior to the program, each of these new, fully-licensed educators served as a paraprofessional or school support professional in Southern Nevada schools for at least two years prior to beginning the program. Over the course of the past year each student maintained their full-time positions in schools while completing coursework and student teaching experiences.

“These are people who were meant to be teachers, who are incredibly passionate about serving students, who want to make a difference in their communities.” said College of Education Dean Danica Hays. “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to forge a pathway for these students to realize their goal of becoming Nevada educators. This group represents the first of many and we are excited for the program to continue to grow.”

And growing it is — currently, there are more than 130 students in the program with approximately 70 slated to graduate in January 2023. Recruitment for the next cohort of future teachers will begin in early spring 2023.

You learn more about on Paraprofessional Pathways Project and sign up to learn more about joining the program’s next cohort online.