Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our society. Recognizing the significance of effective teaching and the need to nurture passionate educators, our Founders Classical Academy campuses in Arkansas introduced the Educators Apprenticeship Program. In its first year, the program saw over 60 teachers from its three campuses across Arkansas.
The Educators Apprenticeship Program serves as a bridge, connecting new teachers and those looking to transition to classical education with experienced mentors, providing them with support and hands-on experience in the field of education. This immersive program offers aspiring educators the opportunity to blend knowledge with practical skills, fostering a comprehensive understanding of all the teaching profession encompasses.
The three-year program pairs each apprentice with a professional learning community of experienced educators, providing guidance, support, and ongoing mentorship. Additionally, regular meetings, workshops, and collaborative projects provide a platform for ongoing professional development and cultivate a supportive community of educators. This environment fosters collaboration and enables apprentices to observe and learn from model classrooms, gaining valuable insights into effective teaching practices.
As the apprentices progress through the program, they get entrusted with increased responsibility in lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement. This gradual exposure to different aspects of teaching ensures a seamless transition from apprentice to a fully-fledged educator.
The impact of the Educators Apprenticeship Program extends beyond the individual participants. By nurturing and empowering new teachers, it ensures the highest quality of education for our students. Its focus on character development and intellectual growth equips educators with the necessary tools to inspire a love for learning and critical thinking among their students.
“We are so honored that we can play a role in helping these educators on their journeys,” said program director Angie Christiano. “Our team cannot wait to see this program grow over the next year and, hopefully, see its potential in even more Founders campuses.”
Find a Founders Classical Academy campus near you to learn more about the lifelong passion for learning these campuses foster in students. For more information or to apply at a Founders Classical Academy campus in Arkansas, please visit responsiveedar.com/founders.