BISMARCK, N.D. (PPR) – Bismarck State College and Valley City State University have partnered to help strengthen the state’s teacher workforce.

Under it, BSC and VCSU students can complete a dual pathway in education. BSC will provide general education and teaching foundation coursework, and students will be allowed to take the professional education courses VCSU offers at BSC. Allen Burgad is VCSU’s interim president.

28 studentsare already enrolled in the dual track program. Emma Smithers was one of the first BSC students to enroll. She says she was preparing to graduate from BSC this spring with an associate degree, and said she was sad to be leaving.

Dr. Jeff Fastnacht is Bismarck’s school superintendent.

Story by Dave Thompson.