Welcome to Nebraska Teacher Apprenticeships!

National Movement to Elevate Teacher Apprenticeships

Across the country, momentum is building! The U.S. Department of Education is encouraging states to tackle teacher shortages by embracing Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Programs.

Now officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor as an approved K–12 occupation. This national push is opening new doors for aspiring educators and strengthening the educator pipeline like never before. Nebraska is proud to advance this work in partnership with the National Center for Grow Your Own, whose guidance and support strengthen our efforts to grow and sustain the educator workforce.

From 3 to 8 Educator Preparation Providers between 2024 and 2026
Growing from 3 to 50 participating school partners
Expanding from 25 to 200+ apprentices

As part of Nebraska’s Grow Your Own initiative, Brad Dirksen of the Nebraska Department of Education presented to the Board and introduced Rachael Grange of Papillion La Vista Public Schools and Sarah Dohmen of Westside Community Schools, who shared their experiences in the Nebraska Educator Apprenticeship Program. Grange and Dohmen answered Board questions and discussed how the program is helping prepare future educators and support Nebraska schools. The State Board of Education approved the Teacher Apprenticeship Round 4 funding request. We extend our sincere appreciation to the members of the State Board of Education for their support and their continued commitment to strengthening Nebraska’s educator pipeline.

Watch Brad Dirksen, Rachael Grange, and Sarah Dohmen share their insights and experiences in the Nebraska Educator Apprenticeship Program during this segment of the May 8, 2026, State Board Meeting (13:05–29:12).

A special thanks to Kearney Public Schools- Northeast Elementary and the University of Nebraska- Kearney for supporting Heidy’s life-changing story!

Every child deserves a champion in the classroom. Thanks to these dedicated future educators, more students across Nebraska will have the support and advocacy they deserve. A heartfelt thank you to the UNL Special Education faculty, Dr. Sue Kemp, and all of the hardworking apprentices who successfully completed the program.

A proud moment for Westside Community Schools as the district celebrated its Teacher Apprenticeship Signing Day, honoring apprentices who are turning their passion for education into careers right here at home. These outstanding apprentices have grown, learned, and served within Westside schools and they will officially return as newly hired educators in the district. Their journey reflects the power of investing in homegrown talent and creating strong pathways for future teachers to thrive in Nebraska classrooms.

Congratulations to these future educators as they begin an exciting new chapter serving the students and communities that helped shape them!

Lindsay exemplifies the initiative and dedication that define an outstanding future educator. She takes an active role in her professional growth, consistently seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge and refine her practice. She is an invaluable member of the team who supports students with compassion and patience, and she is always ready to step in wherever needed. In the classroom, she creates a positive impact on her students by making learning engaging and fun, sparking curiosity and encouraging a love of discovery. Her heart for education and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on those around her. Congratulations, Lindsay, on this special honor!

Elementary Education with an Early Childhood endorsement