About the RAP

Strengthening Indiana’s education workforce

Indiana University’s Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) are U.S. Department of Labor-approved workforce pathways developed in partnership with Indiana school districts to prepare K–12 teachers, principals, and school counselors.

The Indiana University Office of School Partnerships serves as the Registered Apprenticeship Group Sponsor. The K–12 Teacher RAP was formally registered with the U.S. Department of Labor in August 2024. Approval for the Principal RAP followed in February of 2026, and the School Counselor RAP in March of 2026.

Explore school employer partner options

What Is Registered Apprenticeship?

Registered Apprenticeship Programs are part of a degree apprenticeship model that integrates school-based employment with academic preparation and mentorship under a structured, federally recognized framework. This formal workforce development model combines:

  • Paid, on-the-job learning
  • Related technical instruction
  • Structured mentorship
  • Progressive wage advancement
  • Defined competency benchmarks
  • Federal registration and oversight

Apprentices are district employees who earn their degree or certification while working in their local schools.

 

IU’s hybrid apprenticeship model

IU’s degree apprenticeship programs use a hybrid structure in which progress is measured through both hours worked and demonstrated competency.

District-based employment

  • Apprentices are hired and supervised by participating school districts
  • Mentorship and structured responsibilities support skill development
  • Wage progression aligns with competency attainment
  • Coursework is delivered through accredited IU preparation programs
  • Related instruction integrates directly with on-the-job learning
  • Apprentices complete degree and licensure requirements while employed

Districts, IU faculty, and apprentices collaborate to ensure on-the-job learning and academic preparation are mutually reinforcing.

Participating IU campuses:
  • K-12 Teacher RAP
    • IU Columbus, IU East, IU Kokomo, IU South Bend, IU Southeast
  • Principal RAP
    • IU Bloomington, IU Indianapolis, IU South Bend, IU Southeast
  • School Counselor RAP
    • IU Indianapolis, IU Southeast 

Why Registered Apprenticeship in education?

Indiana districts face ongoing workforce challenges. In response, the Registered Apprenticeship Program provides a structured approach to:

  • Developing talent from within
  • Supporting career advancement for paraprofessionals and staff
  • Strengthening long-term retention
  • Aligning employment and licensure preparation
  • Building sustainable leadership pipelines 

The RAP model positions educator development as long-term workforce infrastructure rather than short-term recruitment.

Funding opportunities specific to registered apprenticeship programs exist at a national, state, and local level. As the Group Sponsor, IU’s Office of School Partnerships assists apprentices and school employer partners to secure, braid, and utilize available funds to assist with the costs of related instruction and mentoring.

Implementation begins with district participation

District leaders interested in implementing a Registered Apprenticeship Program begin by engaging with IU’s Office of School Partnerships to review standards, readiness requirements, and implementation timelines.

Prospective apprentices should contact participating districts regarding employment opportunities.

Schedule a district consultation

Explore IU Registered Apprenticeships