The future of education: Bowser administration welcomes first apprenticeship in teaching cohort

WASHINGTON — Imagine becoming a teacher without the hefty tuition fees. In D.C., it’s not just a dream, it’s the new reality for paraprofessionals and graduates ready to lead the classroom. 

In a landmark moment for education in the District, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) are set to celebrate the inaugural cohort of apprentices participating in the first-ever citywide Apprenticeship in Teaching program. This initiative is designed to provide cost-free pathways for D.C. paraprofessionals and high school graduates to become certified teachers for the most in-demand subject areas, including early childhood, elementary and special education.

At Thursday's signing day event, held at OSSE headquarters, the Bowser administration will officially welcome 50 apprentices who have embarked on a transformative journey toward becoming the next generation of educators in the District. The event will feature remarks from key leaders, a panel of experienced teachers offering guidance, and a ceremonial signing of contracts by the apprentices, publicly committing them to serve the students of D.C. upon completing the program.

Launched in spring 2024, the OSSE Apprenticeship in Teaching program addresses D.C.’s educator workforce needs by offering paraprofessionals a cost-free path to becoming certified teachers. Participants work in their current schools by day and attend fully funded UDC classes by night, allowing them to gain the necessary skills to lead classrooms in high-demand subjects.

Supported by OSSE, UDC, and DOES, this program is a collaborative effort that quickly drew over 400 applicants, highlighting the demand for accessible teaching pathways. With successful completion, apprentices will earn an OSSE teaching credential. 

“The Apprenticeship in Teaching program is a fantastic concept – support people who know our kids, who care about our kids, and who want to become teachers in our schools,” said Mayor Bowser. “By removing financial barriers and building pathways specifically for high-demand subject areas, this is a win for our entire public school system.”