Garrard County Schools is proud to be the first and only school district in the Bluegrass Region to offer a Registered K-12 Teacher Apprenticeship Program. This initiative was recently celebrated during a special presentation by Ben Richardson, Apprenticeship Workforce Consultant through the Office of Employer and Apprenticeship Services, Department of Labor for the Bluegrass Region. Mr. Richardson visited Garrard County High School to present a certificate recognizing the district for its leadership in launching this innovative program.
What Is a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)?
A Registered Apprenticeship (RAP) is a structured training program designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary for success in a specific career. The Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Garrard County High School includes key components such as:
Paid Job: Apprentices earn a competitive wage during training, with guaranteed wage increases as they progress.
Classroom Learning: Apprentices receive job-related instruction, either in person or virtually, to support their career development.
Work-Based Learning: Apprentices gain hands-on, structured on-the-job experience that applies directly to their future teaching careers.
Mentorship: Each apprentice is paired with an experienced mentor for guidance and professional growth.
Credential: Upon completion, apprentices earn a nationally recognized credential from the U.S. Department of Labor, preparing them for licensure and certification in teaching.
Benefits of the Program
Registered Apprenticeships provide unique opportunities for both apprentices and employers. Students gain the skills necessary for success in education while receiving wages and mentorship. For Garrard County Schools, this program builds a skilled future workforce and fosters a strong pipeline of educators.
Leadership and Vision: Mrs. Ashlee Bolin
A key figure driving the success of this program is Mrs. Ashlee Bolin, Career Support Specialist, who is passionate about creating innovative opportunities for students. Reflecting on the program, Mrs. Bolin shared:
"We are incredibly fortunate to have the K-12 Teacher Apprenticeship here at Garrard County High School! This hands-on, fully immersed program is a fantastic opportunity for our students and our district. When I was in high school, I would have loved to have the chance to do the K-12 Teacher Apprenticeship. Not only are our students gaining real-life experience, but they are also getting to see what it's like being a teacher 'behind the scenes'! This is the type of real-world, hands-on experience that you can't learn in a college classroom or textbook. We are so excited about moving forward with this program and expanding opportunities for our students!"
Meet Our Apprentices
Currently, Garrard County Schools has three students actively participating in the K-12 Teacher Apprenticeship:
Myla Parson, a senior, is gaining invaluable experience at Paint Lick Elementary in Mrs. Burton’s Kindergarten classroom.
Adria Major, also a senior, is completing her apprenticeship at Lancaster Elementary, working alongside Mrs. Tungate in a Pre-School classroom.
Keira Miller, another senior, is preparing to begin her apprenticeship soon.
These students are not only building their teaching skills but also gaining valuable insights into classroom management, lesson planning, and the joy of working with young learners.
Garrard County Schools: A Proud Sponsor
As the supervisor of this innovative program, Mrs. Bolin oversees all aspects of its design and administration, including recruitment, classroom placements, training, and mentorship.
This initiative highlights the district’s commitment to supporting its students and shaping the future of education in the Bluegrass Region. As Mrs. Bolin expressed, this program is not just about developing future teachers—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that inspire and empower students.
Congratulations to our apprentices and to Garrard County High School for their visionary leadership in workforce development. Stay tuned for more updates as our students continue their journey toward becoming the next generation of educators!