LEWISTON – Thinking about teaching as a career? Some state officials predict that as many as 50 percent of current elementary and middle school teachers will retire from the profession over the next five years.

The University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College will offer an undergraduate program called Collaborative Learning and School Success to prepare students for careers in the classroom. It enables students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to complete an academic major of their choice in the arts and sciences and to become a certified teacher in grades kindergarten through eight.

An informational meeting and open house about the innovative program will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the college. It will include a brief presentation about the program and provide a forum for questions and answers. Information about admissions and financial aid will also be available.

The CLASS Professional Development School program provides all of the education courses and experiences required to become a qualified, state-certified candidate for elementary and middle school teaching positions in the state. The education courses, field experiences and seminars all occur on-site in local public schools, currently the Sherwood Heights Elementary School and Auburn Middle School.

Roger Philippon, assistant dean for student and community affairs, said USM’s L-A College receives many inquiries from students interested in becoming teachers. He said the program is on the cutting-edge nationally for teacher preparation and enjoys strong support from the local school systems.

The informational session will be presented by Dr. Bumper White, associate professor of education and coordinator of the CLASS/PDS program, and Dr. Paul Caron, assistant professor of education. CLASS/PDS students will also be in attendance, as will Auburn partner school representatives. The session, free and open to the public, will be held in Room 170C at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster St. Light refreshments will be served.

Those who wish to attend are asked to call 753-6618. Space is limited, so advance registration is encouraged.

The CLASS/PDS program is designed specifically for undergraduate students. Anyone interested in teaching who already holds a bachelor’s degree may want to consider the ETEP program. ETEP is a post-baccalaureate teacher education program offered through USM’s College of Education and Human Development. Those interested in ETEP are encouraged to call 780-5306 for more information.