Paraprofessional pursues teaching dream through apprenticeship

Summary

Blanca Velazquez, a paraprofessional at Lincoln Elementary, is pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher through an apprenticeship program offered by Grand Island Public Schools in collaboration with Midland University. This initiative allows paraprofessionals to gain teaching credentials while receiving financial support for tuition and other costs, aiming to empower existing staff and improve recruitment in the district.

The program not only addresses the need for qualified teachers but also emphasizes the importance of supporting individuals already familiar with the community and students. Such apprenticeship models enhance workforce development by nurturing talent from within and providing clear career pathways for paraprofessionals.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This story underscores the value of apprenticeship programs in education, particularly in addressing teacher shortages by developing talent from within the existing staff. It highlights the significance of financial support and mentorship in fostering career advancement for paraprofessionals.