Third cohort of Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway candidates selected

Summary

The Department of Education and the Department of Labor and Regulation in South Dakota have announced the selection of the third cohort for the Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway program. This initiative allows up to 80 paraprofessionals to advance their careers by becoming certified teachers while continuing their work in local schools.

This program is a strategic response to the ongoing teacher shortage in South Dakota, providing a pathway for paraprofessionals to transition into teaching roles. By combining work-based learning with academic instruction, the initiative not only benefits the participants but also enhances the educational landscape for students in their communities.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This story highlights the effectiveness of registered apprenticeship programs in addressing workforce shortages, particularly in education. By facilitating the transition of paraprofessionals into certified teaching roles, it exemplifies a successful model of earn-and-learn pathways that can be replicated in other sectors facing similar challenges.