Teacher Apprentice

Summary Of Classification

The Teacher Apprenticeship is an alternate route towards a teacher certification program where individuals have the opportunity to explore the field of education while gaining paid hands-on training. This "Earn While You Learn" model will allow aspiring educators to observe best practices in classroom instruction. Teacher Apprentice candidates will be enrolled in rigorous coursework with the University partner and serve in a paid apprenticeship position in designated WPS schools. A Mentor teacher will be assigned to each Teacher Apprentice working side-by-side with their Teacher Apprentice and be supported by the partnering university Supervisors to help prepare for a successful career in education. Upon successful completion of the program, a WPS Teacher Apprentice will have the opportunity to be interviewed and recommended for current vacancies within the district for the upcoming school year.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity in the field of education
• Knowledge of core curriculum areas for which the WPS Teacher Apprentice is responsible for instructing, including specialized knowledge in certain fields such as reading, mathematics, science, music, art, languages, and so forth, as appropriate
• Knowledge of educational philosophy, teaching methods and approaches, and currently researched best practices and strategies
• Knowledge of child development
• Knowledge of classroom management techniques
• Knowledge of instructional technologies
• Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI)
• Knowledge of community resources
• Excellent listening skills
• Ability and flexibility to interact effectively with students, parents, and other school staff, the administration, and community members of diverse ethnic/racial and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Ability to adapt teaching styles to diverse student populations
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to multitask and be flexible
• Ability to utilize computer and multimedia technology, as appropriate

Position Supervises

Not applicable

Essential Functions

• Serve in a Teacher Apprentice position under the guidance of a designated Mentor Teacher for one academic school year for the hours designated
• Plan instruction and meet with Mentor Teacher at times beyond the staff required hours (meetings can be planned for up to 2 additional hours per week)
• Complete Educator Preparation Program coursework
• Attend district and school-based professional development and training sessions
• Prepare for and take appropriate assessments for Connecticut State initial teaching certification
• Upon successful completion of the program and certification requirements, commit to accepting a classroom teaching position in the District for a period of three years

Working Conditions, Physical And Mental Requirements

• Depth Perception: X
• Standing: X
• Color Distinction: X
• Walking: X
• Peripheral Vision: X
• Sitting: X
• Driving: X
• Lifting: X
• Physical Strength: Carrying: X, Little Physical Effort (-10 lbs.): X, Pushing: X, Light Work (-20 lbs.): X, Pulling: X, Medium Work (20-50 lbs.): X, Climbing: X, Heavy Work (50-100 lbs.): X, Balancing: X, Very Heavy Work (100+ lbs.): X, Stooping: X
• Physical Demands: X
• Kneeling: X
• Cold (50 degrees F or less): X
• Crouching: X
• Heat (90 degrees F or more): X
• Crawling: X
• Temperature Changes: X
• Reaching: X
• Wetness: X
• Handling: X
• Humidity: X
• Grasping: X
• Extreme Noise or Vibration: X
• Mechanical Hazards: X
• Visual Acuity/Near: X
• Visual Acuity/Far: X
• Physical danger or abuse: X

Equal Opportunity Employer

The District will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the District when necessary.