What is BPACT?
The BPACT program is a pipeline for current BUSD classified staff to become classroom teachers. The purpose of this program is to support classified employees to take the next step in their careers in education. BPACT participants receive tuition support towards receiving their BA (if applicable) and credential. Instructional Assistants and other classified employees can receive up to $4,800 per year to complete a baccalaureate degree and/or credential program.
Interested classified personnel should browse the Roadmap to Teaching in California website to find out how to become a teacher. Program participants may be reimbursed up to $4,800 per year to cover eligible expenses (tuition, fees, books, fingerprints, test preparation fees, TB test, and parking fees) for becoming a classroom teacher.
Candidates must intend to enroll in a California-based professional preparation program approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. If a bachelor’s degree is pending, the candidate must complete their undergraduate degree in a California-based college or university. You do not need to have a bachelor’s degree or be currently enrolled in a credential program to apply for this grant.
Berkeley Pathway to Achieve Credentialed Teachers Application – due February 27, 2026
The Berkeley Pathway to Achieve Credentialed Teachers (BPACT) is a teacher pathway program for current BUSD classified staff to become classroom teachers. Participants receive tuition support towards earning their BA (if applicable) and teaching credential.
Applications are due by Friday, February 27, 2026. Please click here for the current application and be sure to read the FAQ before applying. If you have any questions regarding the application or program, please contact Katy McCarthy, BPACT Coordinator.
Who is eligible to participate?
BPACT applicants must:
- Work in a classified position within Berkeley Unified School District
- Have completed a minimum of 2 years of college, or an AA degree
- Intend to pursue a Single Subject, Multiple Subject, Education Specialist Credential, or PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Credential
The application window opens each fall of the current school year.
Interested in applying to BPACT or need more information?
Contact:
Katy McCarthy – Berkeley Pathway to Achieve Credentialed Teachers (BPACT) Coordinator
katymccarthy@berkeley.net
