The Utah State Board of Education is excited to announce the approval and registration of the Utah Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) for teachers in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Utah Department of Workforce Services. This milestone marks a significant advancement in teacher preparation pathways within Utah. The new program is especially aimed at enhancing opportunities for individuals without a bachelor’s degree to enter the teaching profession. This includes our existing teacher’s aides, paraeducators, and substitute teachers that are already working in our schools and are interested in furthering their career into teaching.
“Every child deserves a high-quality, dynamic professional educator in every classroom,” said Board Vice Chair Molly Hart, “The RAP for teachers is the perfect way to reduce barriers for passionate individuals to demonstrate their competency while working in schools to become a professional teacher.”
The RAP for teachers is part of Utah’s broader strategy to diversify and expand pathways into K-12 teaching. Promoted by H.B. 208 in the 2024 General Session, the program will begin enrollment this upcoming school year, offering aspiring educators structured on-the-job learning to demonstrate essential competencies and prepare for a successful career in teaching through apprenticeships. An initial three-year funding commitment of $1,768,750 has been granted by the US Department of Labor for apprentice on-the-job learning and education-related expenses.
