It's a Rap

Finding a Common Language in Registered Apprenticeship for Educators

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by jargon while trying to learn something new? I definitely did when I first entered into this work. The concept of using the age-old practice of apprenticeships to train educators is relatively new and involves collaboration between the Department of Labor (DOL) and the Department of Education (DOE). Since the U.S. apprenticeship system has primarily focused on trades like construction, it often feels like these agencies are speaking different languages when applied to the education profession. 

But here’s the exciting part: these apprenticeship programs have tremendous value! They offer one to two years of on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced teachers, providing essential support as you navigate the classroom in real time and apply the college coursework with real students. Imagine having a guide to share insights and help you tackle challenges—it’s a game changer!

Leveraging the expertise of both agencies (DOL and DOE), Educator Registered Apprenticeships have become a robust program that benefits teachers, school communities, and students alike.

“To make learning the key terms associated with Educator Registered Apprenticeships more fun, we’ve created a crossword puzzle (with a word bank of key terms included!) to help you engage with and familiarize yourself with the basics.

Lost in Translation Crossword Puzzle

Instructions: Use the Educator Apprentice word bank and the clues provided to solve the crossword puzzle and become familiar with the key terms for Registered Educator Apprentices.

Word Bank: Apprentice, Apprenticeship, Journey Worker, OJT, Sponsor, RAP, Teacher Residency Program, RI