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Board approves paraprofessional apprenticeship program to grow teachers, including 10% supplement after first year
Summary
The board approved a DOE‑approved paraprofessional apprenticeship (para‑to‑teacher) program that partners with Florida A&M University and Tallahassee State College; the district will provide a 10% pay supplement after the first year and expects participants to transition into teaching positions when certified.
The Leon County School Board unanimously approved a paraprofessional apprenticeship program April 8 that aims to turn district paraprofessionals with an associate degree into licensed classroom teachers through a grow‑your‑own pathway.
Program description: District administrators described the program as a partnership between Leon County Schools recruiting staff, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee State College. The apprenticeship is DOE‑approved and targets paraprofessionals with an associate degree who will apply and be selected for the cohort. Administrators said the district will provide a 10% pay supplement for apprentices after the first year, and that completion of the program and subsequent hiring as certified teachers would increase compensation further.
Why it matters: Board members said the program is intended to address staffing shortages, especially in exceptional student education (ESE), by training and promoting existing paraprofessionals who already work with the district’s students with disabilities. Board members praised the approach as an investment in local talent and retention.
Discussion highlights - Selection and placement: Apprentices apply for entry into the program; staff explained apprentices generally complete the program at their current school unless a reassignment is required by openings or district needs. The board asked whether apprentices could transition into teaching positions at their apprenticeship school once certified; staff said placement depends on openings but the district will try to honor continuity when possible. - Targeted need: Board members asked whether the program will be used to address ESE staffing shortages. Staff confirmed encouraging candidates who work with students with disabilities to participate. - Implementation and publicity: Board members urged the district to promote the program statewide as a best practice once it is established. Staff credited Sarah Hembry in recruiting for developing the program.
Vote and next steps: The MOU implementing the apprenticeship program passed unanimously. Staff said they will implement cohorts, administer the 10% supplement, and report back to the board on outcomes and fiscal impact.
Ending: Board members characterized the program as a strategic, locally focused investment to grow the teacher pipeline and reduce vacancy pressures in critical areas such as ESE.
