Delaware would offer apprenticeship routes for school aides and teens

The Education Department would include an apprenticeship for public school aides aimed at an associate degree and a move into teacher training. It would cover public school employees called paraprofessionals, including classroom aides. The route must be registered under the teacher apprenticeship program. At least one college or university and one district or charter school must run the pilot. Expansion would depend on interest and funding, and the program would continue while funding is available. The pilot would run in the 2025–26 school year, with expansion planned for 2026–27.

The Education Department would offer high school students a youth apprenticeship with a chance to earn college credits and hours toward educator certification. It would serve high school students and prepare them to enter registered teacher apprenticeships. The program must meet state and federal standards for training before an apprenticeship, as well as labor registration rules.

The Education and Labor Departments would apply for funding for educator apprenticeships. The money sought would support the Delaware Educator Apprenticeship Program. Applications for the named apprenticeship grants would depend on eligibility. The departments must also seek other available state or federal funding. The named apprenticeship grant applications are for the 2025–26 school year.