Seminole State and SCPS launch new Teacher Apprenticeship Program

Seminole State College of Florida and Seminole County Public Schools are launching a new state-approved hands-on teacher apprenticeship program. Seminole County Public Schools is the number one public school district in Florida based on Niche reports. The new program prioritizes classroom experience over university-based learning and is part of the State of Florida’s effort to strengthen the state’s teacher pipeline by creating a no-cost apprenticeship pathway to the teaching profession. It will help more than 200 teachers per year across the state become credentialed.

Under the program, apprentices work at a public school in Seminole County while taking college courses toward a teacher credential with zero tuition costs. Students are supported by mentors and resources from Seminole State’s Florida Department of Education - Pathways to Career Opportunities Grow Your Own Teacher Grant. The Pathways to Career Opportunities Grow Your Own Teacher Grant program is a $5 million statewide grant to open the teaching profession to individuals who are involved in the field but otherwise might not consider becoming credentialed. 

“This program is a great opportunity for individuals who already possess an associate degree in education or who are currently working in the school system,” said Dr. Loretta Ovueraye, vice president of Academic Affairs and chief academic officer at Seminole State. “Apprentices work under the direction of an SPCS mentor or master teacher during their clinical experience in the classroom for at least one year or 2,000 hours, which allows for apprentices to earn while they learn. Our faculty are truly excited about this opportunity to develop the next generation of teachers.” 

“The school system is appreciative of the state’s leadership for supporting this visionary pathway to the teaching profession and is glad to support and participate in this effort,” said SCPS Superintendent Serita Beaman.

The teacher apprenticeship is the newest in a number of teaching pathways offered by Seminole State in collaboration with Seminole County Public Schools. These include: the Educator Preparation Institute (EPI), bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and exceptional student education K-12, and SCOPE (formerly known as TEACH).

The first cohort of apprentice teachers began in fall 2024 and will combine a mix of fully online courses at Seminole State with work experiences alongside mentor teachers in assigned schools. Prior to completing the program, students will complete the required experience hours, take and pass the Florida Teacher Certification Exams and be awarded a Florida professional teaching certificate.

Individuals interested in participating in the program should contact the Human Resources office of Seminole County Public Schools or Professor of Education Dr. Ashley Navarro at Seminole State College of Florida.