Apprentice Program

Why do we Need Apprentices?

The teacher shortage compels us to seek new pathways to grow the next generation of educators.

• 27% fewer education graduates in Maryland over the last 10 years

• Maryland has approximately 5,500 vacancies to fill each year

• The number of conditionally certified teachers has increased nearly 10x its typical level for SMCPS

Who is a Teacher Apprentice?

A full-time educational support and learning role that… 

Connects degree-seeking candidates with school-based experiential learning Provides hands-on experience in classrooms and schools Links learning opportunities and classroom supports together Provides supports and collaborative learning experiences for new, non-tenured, and conditionally certified teachers

What Are the Levels of Teacher Apprentices?

• Tier 1: Former Teacher Academy of Maryland student; Working toward Associate’s Degree

• Tier 2: Earned Associate’s Degree;;Working toward Bachelor’s Degree

• Tier 3:  Earned Bachelor’s Degree; Working toward Maryland Certification

What Are the Benefits of a Teacher Apprentice

• For the Apprentice: Classroom-based experiences Understanding process of planning and delivery of instruction Experience working with classroom management and organization Variety of content and classroom experiences Co-teaching opportunities

• For the Partner Teachers: Collaboration Classroom supports for Small group instruction Individualized supports Classroom management Data tracking Clerical tasks Time for mentoring

• For the School: Direct support for new and provisional teachers teachers Coverage for new teacher mentoring Staff for classroom and extra curricular support Relationship building with potential staff