Summary
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has been awarded a $3.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to support its newly established Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program. This initiative aims to train teacher assistants to become fully qualified teachers while earning a salary and completing their coursework online, with plans to support 305 apprentices across over 60 school districts over the next four years.
This grant underscores a significant shift in teacher preparation and workforce development, emphasizing earn-and-learn opportunities within the education sector. By fostering partnerships with local school districts, USM is addressing the urgent need for qualified educators in Mississippi, ultimately enhancing the quality of education for students in the region.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story highlights the growing recognition of teaching as a viable apprenticeship pathway, which can attract and retain talent in K-12 education. It also illustrates how registered apprenticeship programs can effectively bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical experience, benefiting both educators and the communities they serve.
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