Complete Your Degree or Alternative Certification—100% Free
The Grow Your Own (GYO) Educator Program, administered through the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), offers full funding for aspiring teachers working in local school districts. Through this initiative, eligible district employees can receive funding that covers 100% of tuition, fees, and books for up to 124 credit hours toward a traditional undergraduate degree or alternative certification coursework.
Why Complete Your GYO Pathway at USAO?
We know you're balancing a busy work schedule in your school district while managing your everyday life. USAO makes earning your teaching credentials or finishing your degree as simple and achievable as possible:
- Flexible Online and In Person Class Options: Choose from convenient courses designed specifically for working adults, substitutes, lay coaches, and school staff.
- Accelerated Terms: Take focused courses during 8-week terms (such as our Fall B Term running Oct. 12 – Dec. 6), allowing you to complete requirements quickly without overloading your weekly schedule.
- Personalized Support from Day One: At USAO, you won't get lost in the crowd. Our faculty and advisors work directly with you every step of the way to ensure your enrollment, course plan, and OSDE paperwork flow smoothly.
- No Minimum Hour Requirement: Whether you work full-time or just a few hours a week as a paid tutor or substitute in your district, you qualify to have your entire USAO tuition, fees, and books covered.
Who Qualifies?
Anyone employed by a participating school district in any capacity (with no minimum required hours) is eligible, including:
- Alternative certification teachers
- Substitute teachers
- Tutors (including paid high school student tutors planning to go into teaching)
- Lay coaches, student teachers, and support staff
How the Funding & Application Process Works
- District Application: Your school district submits an annual participation form and nominates you for GYO funding.
- Participant Application: Once OSDE receives your district’s form, you’ll receive an email link to complete your quick individual application.
- Direct Disbursement: OSDE sends funds directly to your school district to cover your university costs—meaning zero out-of-pocket expenses for you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
- Explore the OSDE Program: Visit the OSDE Grow Your Own Educator Program Page for detailed guidelines and district forms.
- Connect with USAO: Have questions about our online courses or want help partnering your district with USAO? Reach out to Dr. Sarah Layman, Dean of the School of Education & Speech-Language Pathology, at 405-574-1253 or email slayman@usao.edu.