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As school districts in the Houston region and beyond face teacher shortages, Lone Star College System has launched a Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Teaching with the help of a $200,000 grant from Houston Endowment.

“Education is the foundation for future success. Lone Star College Foundation is eager to see this grant expand opportunities for aspiring teachers who will encourage and empower the next generation,” said Susan Summers, CFRE, LSCS director, Donor Relations.

The Houston Endowment grant supported consulting services and curriculum development for the new degree program, which made its fall 2026 launch possible.

“Every child deserves a well-prepared teacher, and that starts with strong, affordable pathways into the profession. Lone Star College System’s new bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is a smart, timely response to our region’s certified teacher shortage,” said August Hamilton, education program director for Houston Endowment. “By aligning with workforce needs and supporting future educators on their journey to certification, this program will help ensure more children in Greater Houston have the skilled teachers they need to thrive.”

The program is available at LSC-Atascocita Center and LSC-Creekside Center with an initial cohort of 50 students at each site, producing certified teachers in Early Childhood-Grade 3 and Early Childhood-Grade 6 and addressing a crucial workforce gap. The two-year program is designed for students who have completed an Associate of Arts in Teaching, Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, or another associate degree with directed electives.

“We want our local schools to be staffed by highly qualified, compassionate teachers who are prepared to meet their students’ unique learning needs,” said Rebecca Saiz, Ed.D., LSCS executive director, Educator Preparation Program. “By strengthening the pipeline of qualified teachers, Lone Star College System is strengthening the future of the communities we serve.”

Other bachelor’s degree offerings at LSCS include cybersecurity; nursing; emergency management; and energy, manufacturing and trades management. Learn more at LoneStar.edu/Bachelors-Degrees.