They’ve been in the classroom and on the job. Now these students have made their commitment official during a K12 and Early Childhood Education Apprentice Signing Day ceremony! The GCS apprenticeship program began in 2019 to provide opportunities for students interested in teaching to gain invaluable hands-on training in high school, while also getting paid to learn and earn credit toward their careers.
Through its Career and Technical Education pathways and in partnership with WKU, GCHS has been a pioneer in developing and growing the apprenticeship program. It has earned state and even national recognition for its success as well as its unique and highly personalized format. Program mentor and FCS teacher Cody Mooneyhan teaches the advanced-level coursework, plus provides the kind of one-on-one guidance and support that can only come from the experience of a successful education veteran.
In addition to college-level coursework, the apprenticeship provides consistent opportunities to develop classroom skills and build confidence. These opportunities extend after graduation, as “adult” apprentices continue to advance their knowledge, grow, and refine their skills.
Most of the district’s 13 student-apprentices are currently teaching, learning and observing in schools throughout GCS. Two are recognized as the first to complete the apprenticeship program registered through the Department of Labor. Leanne Riggs Shartzer returned to teach social studies at GCHS last school year, and Ashley Dotson began her full-time career this year at Lawler.
With National Be a Teacher Day coming up next week (the 2nd Thursday of October), what better way to celebrate the future of these new educators than this public commitment to themselves and to the students of tomorrow!