Tri‑agency proposal seeks paid teacher apprenticeships to expand and retain educators

Presenters from a tri‑agency workgroup updated the boards on a registered teacher‑apprenticeship initiative designed to recruit and retain teachers by aligning educator preparation with workforce practice.

The workgroup said apprenticeship models can lower the cost of preparing new teachers by replacing or supplementing unpaid residencies with paid stipends, participation in the teacher retirement system during apprenticeship, and stronger mentor relationships tied to employment contracts after completion. Staff listed three priorities: secure diverse funding, establish consistent program standards, and engage employers and school systems to support quality placements.

The presenters said a pilot completed with Southeastern University and the Tangipahoa Parish School System produced operational lessons; standards and guidelines are being peer reviewed and a funding guide is in development. The workgroup argued the approach will expand the candidate pool by removing an unpaid‑residency barrier and improve retention by tying apprenticeship pay and benefits to longer‑term employment commitments.

Board members and partners — including Louisiana Works — voiced support and asked staff to continue refining funding strategies and scaling the model to additional universities and districts. The boards received the update and the presenters will return with peer‑reviewed standards and funding recommendations.