Many teachers fled the profession during the pandemic, leaving Maryland with a shortage. But a new program is helping hopeful teachers become skilled educators. Notre Dame of Maryland University teamed up with Baltimore City Schools to create the Innovative Degree Apprenticeship Program, funded by a state grant. "The program is designed for paraprofessionals, who may have their associate degree, to go through a preparation program for certification as a classroom teacher," said Kathy Doherty, dean of NDMU's School of Education.