Newport, VT – May 1, 2025 — North Country Supervisory Union (NCSU) is proud to celebrate the success of its participation in Vermont’s pioneering Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program, a workforce initiative designed to address the educator shortage while investing in local talent.
The program, developed through collaboration between the Vermont Department of Labor, Vermont Agency of Education, and the Vermont Rural Education Collaborative (VREC), follows the “earn while you learn” model. It offers a supportive, low-cost pathway for individuals with bachelor’s degrees—many already working in schools—to obtain full teaching licensure.
Two NCSU participants, Sarah Standish of Troy School and Paul Chambers of Derby Elementary School, recently received their teaching licenses. “It’s been an empowering process that validates the work so many of us are already doing in schools every day,” said Standish. “The apprenticeship allowed me to formally demonstrate my knowledge, skills, and commitment to the profession.”
Chambers added, “The support of the apprenticeship program is evidence that our SU is willing to work with individuals who desire to be in the classroom but come from a diverse work background. I appreciate this belief that there can be multiple pathways to end up as an educator, and the program provides guided support, both through an instructor and mentor, that allowed me to successfully navigate the complex world of licensure.”
In addition to the two newly licensed teachers, eight more NCSU apprentices are expected to complete the program soon, working across five schools in the region.
Nancy Griffith, HR Coordinator for NCSU, emphasized the value of this pathway. “This program allows apprentice teachers to engage in a reflective, hands-on approach to teaching, supported by experienced mentors and administrators. It’s an effective route for those with non-education degrees who are committed to our students and community.”
NCSU’s apprentices are guided by mentors from the district’s Design for Learning Department, led by Director Jessica Applegate, and receive instructional support and portfolio development guidance from Juliette Longchamp, Director of Professional Programs at the VT-NEA. Roberta Baker, the NCSU licensing coach, and Mrs. Griffith continue to provide administrative and professional support throughout the process.
Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington noted, “By supporting teacher registered apprentices who already have deep connections to their communities, we are strengthening Vermont schools and ensuring a brighter future for our students.”
The Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program launched across seven Northeast Kingdom districts. Over 25 apprentices are expected to complete the program this May. The successful pilot offers a scalable solution to Vermont’s educator workforce challenges.
Learn more about the Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program at NCSU:
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