"There has been a growing need in Clark County to produce more and more highly skilled teachers for the school district," said Dr. Jill Derby, board chair. "As part of our renewed Strategic Directions, the Board of Regents has placed a high priority on working with the local school districts, as well as Governor Miller and the Nevada Legislature, to enhance the opportunities for teacher education."

During today's Finance and Planning Committee meeting, the Board approved revisions to the Biennial Operating Priorities which included requesting an additional $3 million for teacher education programs in Southern Nevada: $2 million for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and $1 million to the Community College of Southern Nevada.

"This initiative would allow UNLV and CCSN the flexibility to try some new approaches as well as explore new partnerships with each other, the school district and local businesses," added Regent Derby. "Overall, it's a win-win for Nevada."

Comprised of two doctoral-granting universities, four comprehensive community colleges and one environmental research institution, the University and Community College System of Nevada serves the educational and job training needs of the nation's fastest growing state. As Nevada's only system of higher education, the UCCSN provides educational opportunities to more than 78,000 students.