Teacher Apprenticeship Program

Shape the Future. Start in the Classroom.

Florida SouthWestern State College’s Teacher Apprenticeship Program offers a unique opportunity for current school-based paraprofessionals who are employed by partner district schools or charters to transition into certified teaching roles. If you're ready to take the next step in your education career without stepping away from your job, FSW’s Teacher Apprenticeship Program makes it possible.

A group of young students sits cross-legged on the floor of a classroom, attentively listening to a teacher who is seated at the front holding up an illustrated storybook while reading aloud, with classroom decorations and educational materials on the walls.

Program Information:

Florida SouthWestern State College’s Teacher Apprenticeship Program is a two-year, hands-on pathway into the teaching profession for paraprofessionals who are already working in Florida elementary schools. This program allows apprentices to earn the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a Reading Endorsement while continuing full-time employment and training under the guidance of a qualified mentor. Program coursework is offered online, which provides flexibility to the working apprentice who is gaining on-the-job experience in the classroom.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) at Florida SouthWestern State College, applicants must:

  • Be employed as a paraprofessional in a participating district or charter school
  • Hold an associate’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution
  • Be admitted to Florida SouthWestern State College
  • Be selected for participation by the FSW partnering Florida school district or charter organization who is the participating employer
  • Commit to a two-year placement in a mentor’s classroom at a designated school site
  • Pass a fingerprint and background screening in accordance with Florida Statute 1012.32
  • Obtain a Temporary Teacher Apprenticeship Certificate as outlined in Florida Statute 1012.56(7)(d)

Program Curriculum

The Teacher Apprenticeship Program includes coursework and on-the-job experiential learning that leads to the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a 60-credit program. The curriculum includes a planned two-year sequence of instruction that consists of 34 credit hours of online coursework through Florida SouthWestern State College. The additional 26 articulated credit hours are awarded upon the apprentice’s successful mastery of the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices while gaining insight into effective teaching practices grounded in theory and coursework.

Learn more at: https://www.fldoe.org/teaching/preparation/apprenticeship.stml

Interest Form:

Interested in joining? Fill out the interest form: HERE

Program Contact:

Dr. Mary Robertson Coordinator, Teacher Apprenticeship Program Email: Mary.Robertson@fsw.edu