Summary
Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) has initiated a Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) in partnership with Marian University to address the significant shortage of K–12 educators in Indiana. This innovative program allows current IPS staff to pursue a fully accredited Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education while maintaining their existing roles, integrating online coursework with on-the-job learning to support degree completion.
TAP is part of a broader movement toward making educator preparation more accessible for working adults, creating a pathway for classified staff to transition into certified teaching roles. By fostering a homegrown pipeline of qualified teachers, IPS is investing in its workforce and strengthening the educational foundation for the communities it serves.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This initiative exemplifies the growing trend of earn-and-learn models in education, highlighting the potential of registered apprenticeship programs to meet workforce needs. By supporting current employees to become certified educators, IPS is not only addressing immediate staffing challenges but also building a sustainable future for Indiana's schools.
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