A program at Wichita State University (WSU) is helping to tackle Kansas’ significant teacher shortage by offering innovative pathways to licensure. The state has been grappling with a shortage of educators, with over 1,500 open teaching positions reported in recent years. This has led to a push for “grow-your-own” initiatives, and WSU has become a pilot program for the state’s efforts.
The Teacher Apprentice Program™
One of WSU’s key initiatives is the Teacher Apprentice Program™ (TAP). This program allows individuals to work as paid paraeducators or teacher’s aides while completing their bachelor’s degree and earning their teaching license. The courses are offered 100% online, providing a flexible option for those who are already working or have other commitments. This approach allows aspiring teachers to gain valuable, real-world classroom experience while they’re still in school.
The program also offers financial benefits. Students in the TAP can receive a limited teaching license after just two semesters, allowing them to earn more while they continue their education. They are also eligible for scholarships, and the state’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program provides districts with funding to help cover tuition, fees, and books. This removes significant financial barriers for many who want to enter the profession.
Partnerships and Future Teacher Academies
WSU is also working with other institutions to create smoother pathways into teaching. A partnership with WSU Tech and Butler Community College established the Teacher Education Pathways program, which provides scholarships and a clear course of study for students. This collaboration is specifically aimed at addressing shortages in special education and elementary classrooms.
Another initiative is the Wichita Public Schools (WPS) Future Teacher Academy, a 2+2 program in collaboration with WSU and WSU Tech. High school students can get a head start on their careers by earning college credits and working as paraeducators in Wichita schools. The program streamlines the process of earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with a concentration in Elementary Education Unified (K-6th Grade), preparing them to make an impact in the state’s most diverse school district.
Statewide Impact
WSU’s successful programs have become a model for the state. The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has consulted with WSU’s program coordinators to help craft the state’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, which now helps foot the bill for students statewide. By providing a clear pathway and removing financial and time-related barriers, WSU’s efforts are not only filling critical teaching vacancies but also creating a new generation of skilled and supported educators for Kansas. 🍎
