QuEST Degree Seekers

About Quest
The QuEST Degree Seeker program is a three-year interactive program with the result being awarded a bachelor's degree and teacher certification. Program details listed below:
-
Plano ISD Core 30 - 30 hours of college credit earned through coursework completed during the first year of the program.
- Teachworthy - 13 hours of college credit earned through the completion of the required educator preparation on-demand modules.
- Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) - balance of college hours completed through IWU's online program to earn your bachelor's degree.
- Classroom Teaching - Working as an associate teacher in a classroom for the duration of the program.
- Instructional and Program Support - Provided by dedicated QuEST lead teachers as well as your on campus QuEST advisor and any other campus supports available to you.
QuEST Partnerships


Eligibility Requirements
- Must be currently serving as an instructional paraprofessional in Plano ISD and will have completed180 days of service by May 22, 2026.
- A minimum of 47 hours of college credit with a 2.5 GPA from an accredited university.
- Coursework must be academic in nature (no trade or vocational schools). The candidate cannot be in academic warning, academic probation, and academic suspension from their previous institution(s).
**We are currently reviewing the number of hours required based on recent legislative changes** - Must have met the requirements of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment in both English Language Arts and Reading as well as Math.
- Coursework must be academic in nature (no trade or vocational schools). The candidate cannot be in academic warning, academic probation, and academic suspension from their previous institution(s).
- Must be 21 years old by the first day of the teacher workday calendar for the 2026-2027.
- References (2) - One must be current Plano ISD supervisor and another reference who is knowledgeable of your work in the classroom
Applicants who meet the above criteria will be screened and considered for an interview.
Informational Meetings
- November 6, 2025 @ 3:45 pm, Administration Building
- December 10, 2025 @ 5:00 pm, Administration Boardroom
Application Timeline for Cohort #4
- November 2025 - Application Released
- January 2026 - Application Window Closed
- February 2026 - Interviews
- February 2026 - Notification of Selection
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the difference between a Degree Seeker candidate and a Career Seeker candidate?
- What if I have a degree from outside of the country?
- What if I have a certification from another state?
- Do I qualify for the program if I am a substitute?
- How long will the QuEST program take to complete?
- What if I work in FANS/PASAR/Transportation?
- Does QuEST accept applications all year long?
What is the difference between a Degree Seeker candidate and a Career Seeker candidate?
What if I have a degree from outside of the country?
What if I have a certification from another state?
Do I qualify for the program if I am a substitute?
How long will the QuEST program take to complete?
What if I work in FANS/PASAR/Transportation?
Does QuEST accept applications all year long?
Contact Us
QuEST Lead Teacher
Nichole Allen
Email:
QuEST Lead Teacher
Gina Armstrong
Email:
