Registered Teaching Apprenticeship Program

Currently, no. All apprentices need to be hired as full-time employees of a school district that has signed on to be an official partner. It is the responsibility of the district to reach out to the Institute for Labor Studies and Research or Rhode Island College if they are interested in participating in the RTAP.

Currently, the apprenticeship program is only for full time paraprofessionals working in a partner PK-12 district that have a bachelor's degree (any content) and are interested in pursuing a career as a fully certified educator. We anticipate in the future to have a pathway for paraprofessionals that do not have a bachelor's degree

Each apprentice arrives at this work with different experiences, training, and credentials. Once the RIC application is complete, a team at the college will review all materials and schedule a time to meet with you to discuss a potential program of study and timeline. Length of your program will vary based on several variables, but program completion may be possible for some in as little as 15-18 months.

The responsibility of apprentices in each district is to work (as a paraprofessional) and learn (building skills towards certification). It is essential that you meet with your district administration, school leader, and mentor teacher at the start of your apprenticeship to learn how your role and responsibilities within the classroom will change over time. It is also important that you work in collaboration with your mentor teacher and district administrator on a regular basis to ensure you are progressing in your apprenticeship.

Establish open communication by actively seeking feedback and being receptive to feedback. Develop a meeting and check-in schedule that allows for timely feedback and discussion. Review all apprenticeship and EPP expectations, requirements, and possible schedule conflicts.

Show initiative and a genuine interest in learning from your mentor by proactively engaging in professional development opportunities, attending workshops, and staying informed about current educational practices. Embrace continuous improvement, vulnerability, and self-exploration.

Foster a collaborative and supportive atmosphere by expressing gratitude for your mentor's willingness to serve as your guide throughout this journey, sharing your own insights, and working together to create a positive and enriching learning environment for both mentor and mentee.

As a registered teaching apprentice under the Apprenticeships Building America (ABA) grant, full tuition at Rhode Island College (in an approved educator preparation program that results in state certification) is provided while you remain employed as a full-time paraprofessional in your district. Where books, application fees and/or test fees are not included and the responsibility of the apprentice, we encourage you to speak with your district administrator to discuss further. Every district will approach this differently. You will be provided ongoing coaching and support from the Institute for Labor Studies and Research and the RTAP Director at RIC. Three professional learning community meetings are held each semester, and project leaders are available to meet with apprentices when needed.

We understand that returning to school after many years can be anxiety provoking for some. As a matriculated student at Rhode Island College, you will have access to all offerings at the Academic Success Center to include, but not limited to the writing lab, math learning lab, tutorial services & academic skill building.

As an apprentice, you will have access to multiple wraparound services and support at the school, district, partner, and college levels.

• Academic questions (anything to do with your POS at RIC) are always recommended that you contact your professor and/or advisor to discuss further.
• With apprenticeship expectations, tasks, and/or requirements, you can contact Fatima Martin at the ILSR or Jay Midwood at RIC.
• Wage progression, contract, and/or schedule are district specific questions, and we recommend that you connect with your union president, district administrator, or HR director.
• Mentorship and role expansion as a paraprofessional over time you will begin to take on more learning and teaching responsibilities in the classroom. It is important that you communicate with your classroom teacher (mentor) expectations of your educator prep program and progression towards mastering core professional standards.

In teaching. If you are ever unsure, you can always contact Fatima Martin (ISLR) or Jay Midwood (RIC).

No, you do not need to take an unpaid leave of absence to student teach. As an apprentice, you “earn while you learn” and will remain a full-time paid employee during your student teaching semester.

Yes. The Feinstein School of Education and Human Development at Rhode Island College is the official educator preparation program for all apprentices. You must enroll in a graduate program of study that results in state teacher certification.

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is important for all college students as it serves as the gateway to accessing various federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA ensures students maximize their eligibility for financial assistance, alleviating the burden of tuition costs and fostering equal access to higher education.

The Institute for Labor Studies and Research will provide one-on-one coaching and support for successful submission of the FAFSA application. It is important to remember that to remain eligible for FAFSA, you must be enrolled in at least two (2) courses each semester.

The district will track your progress and should meet with you regularly. You will be required to demonstrate mastery and understanding of core educator competencies as outlined in the Rhode Island Professional Teaching Standards. You and your mentor will review the competencies and create a personalized plan to achieve. As part of your EPP, you will also have visits from college faculty and clinical supervisors.

An apprentice will complete a program of study at Rhode Island College and after successfully meeting all program requirements they will be eligible to apply for an initial teacher certification from the Rhode Island Department of Education. Certification areas will vary based on the apprentices’ specific program.

The Apprenticeship Certification through the Rhode Island Department of Education is a two (2) year preliminary certification for apprentices issued by RIDE at the request of the apprentice employer. It is for any apprentice who has been hired as the teacher of record for a classroom in their school. So, yes, you may work off this certification, but it would require you and your district leadership to engage in further conversations. Upon completion of your educator prep program and successfully passing the required Praxis tests, you may then apply for your initial three (3) year certification in your area of expertise.