Nontraditional License Pathway and Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program

What is the Kansas Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program?

The Kansas Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program is a career pathway designed to help individuals become fully licensed teachers by combining on-the-job experience, structured mentorship, and college coursework. This earn-and-learn model allows aspiring educators to work in schools while completing the educational and licensing requirements necessary to earn their initial Kansas teaching license.

Apprentices are supported by a mentor teacher, evaluated by their school district, and enrolled in a teacher preparation program. Depending on their educational background, apprentices may be completing a bachelor’s degree or additional coursework at a four-year university—often leading to a master’s degree in education.

Regardless of their starting point, all apprentices are teachers in training progressing toward full professional licensure.

To apply for the apprenticeship program, complete the nontraditional application. This application is for the apprenticeship program and NOT for your license. 

Why Individuals on a Nontraditional License Can Be Apprentices

In Kansas, individuals teaching on a nontraditional license may already serve as the teacher of record. However, they are still actively working toward their initial teaching license. These individuals are enrolled in state-approved preparation programs and are required to complete additional coursework and assessments.

Even though they lead a classroom, they benefit from the same supports as other apprentices:

• Daily classroom experience that deepens instructional skills
• Mentorship from an experienced teacher
• Structured support and oversight through the apprenticeship program

Participation in the apprenticeship model formalizes their growth and ensures that all licensure requirements are met with guidance and accountability.