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Apprenticeship Program Fast Tracks High Schoolers To Teaching Careers
Apprenticeship Program Fast Tracks High Schoolers To Teaching Careers
The College of Education & Human Development is partnering with Bullitt County Public Schools (BCPS) to launch a groundbreaking teacher apprenticeship program, the third of its kind in Kentucky. This initiative draws inspiration from the success of the Louisville Teacher Residency (LTR) but instead focuses on high school students to tackle the teacher shortage from the ground up.
Elementary Education, Early Childhood and Moderate to Severe Disabilities, as well as dual certifications in Learning Behavioral Disorders, Early Childhood and Moderate to Severe Disabilities.
In January, 13 students majoring in early childhood education or related fields and current practitioners such as early childhood teachers, administrators, coaches and trainers traveled to Reggio Emilia, Italy — the town where the early childhood approach that is now emulated around the world was founded. They received training and instruction directly from the pedagogistas (teachers) and atelieristas (art and music specialists), visited the schools and learned about the social and political influences that helped shape and continue to shape the Reggio Emilia philosophy for educating young children.
These programs offer a unique opportunity for students to jumpstart their college journey, immerse in campus culture and forge meaningful connections with peers and mentors.
Starting next school year, BCPS will select five high school seniors to participate. These students will earn dual credit through UofL and Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) while gaining paid, hands-on classroom experience. After high school graduation, they can earn their teacher certification at UofL in as little as two years, all while continuing to work in BCPS classrooms.
Students can choose from post-secondary education in
“UofL has been wonderful,” said Lee Barger, BCPS College and Career Readiness director. “They have removed a lot of barriers to help us and opened the doors to us. They want to make this program successful.”
This innovative model is designed to engage high school students early with real-world experiences, paving the way for a new generation of passionate, well-prepared teachers.
“This is the first apprenticeship model that the college is implementing,” said Charles Rains, senior academic counselor. “We look forward to investing our resources and expertise to serve families in Bullitt County.”
