Mission The mission of the U.S. DOL-approved Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program (T-RAP) at William Paterson University’s College of Education is to remove impediments by providing accessible, innovative pathways for aspiring educators to become certified teachers. T-RAP couples coursework with paid on-the-job training with a mentor teacher so teacher apprentices can earn as they learn. The College of Education and its school district partners co-construct the apprenticeship experience so that on-the-job learning and related instruction are interdependent, complementary, and mutually reinforcing. The university and school district partners collaboratively identify and provide intensive support to diverse, high-quality candidates who have a strong interest in and commitment to serving students in high-needs communities. Apprentices include current paraprofessionals and teachers’ aides who increase the racial, ethnic, and linguistic diversity of the teacher workforce. For candidates who do not hold instructional support staff positions but are interested in teacher apprenticeships, the College of Education works with its partners to facilitate employment. Comprehensive case management and induction resources ensure teacher apprentices have the support needed to succeed as apprentices and teachers of record. Contact Information: teacherapprentice@wpunj.edu
