USM’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program First in Mississippi to Earn Recognition from Federal Agency - The University of Southern Mississippi

Summary

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first institution in Mississippi to have its Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. This program aims to support aspiring educators by providing on-the-job training combined with academic instruction, ultimately leading to both a teaching degree and license.

This recognition comes at a critical time as the state faces challenges in attracting and retaining qualified teachers. By integrating teaching into the apprenticeship model, USM and the Department of Labor are working together to create sustainable pathways for future educators, thereby addressing workforce shortages in the K-12 education sector.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This development is a pivotal step for registered apprenticeship programs, highlighting the expanding role of apprenticeships in education. It demonstrates the potential of earn-and-learn models to cultivate a skilled workforce while meeting the pressing needs of local communities.