K-12 Teacher

K–12 Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program

Teach Local

Grow your career while strengthening your community

Indiana University’s K12 Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP-T) connects aspiring educators with paid, structured pathways into teaching — right within their local school districts.

Built on a foundation of “earning while learning,” our program integrates employment, academic coursework, mentorship, and licensure preparation into one coordinated model.

Start the RAP-T conversation

Why choose the IU RAP-T?

Paid work experience

IU RAP-T school employer partners employ Teacher Apprentices and pay an increasing wage aligned with on-the-job learning and competency development.

Employment structure and responsibilities vary by school district based on the district’s selection and educator placement process.

Related instruction

Teacher Apprentices complete either an undergraduate or post-baccalaureate route to their degree or certification, both in pursuit of a teaching license. 

Regardless of the route, Teacher Apprentices select their desired teaching area and follow a tailored preparation program to meet specific licensure requirements.

Mentorship

A licensed mentor teacher matches with each Teacher Apprentice to provide ongoing, real-world guidance, and help translate university theory into effective classroom practice through consistent, real-world application.

This collaborative framework ensures IU coursework and district assignments are synchronized for maximum impact.

Who should consider becoming a Registered Teacher Apprentice?

The K12 Teacher RAP may be a strong fit if you are:

  • A paraprofessional ready to pursue teacher licensure
  • A career changer seeking a meaningful profession in your community
  • A district employee seeking career advancement
  • A college student interested in education

Participation requires employment and placement with a participating school district.


Ready to teach local?

The K12 Teacher RAP is designed to support aspiring educators, the districts that employ them, and the communities they call home. If you are ready to begin, start with your district's application process or contact us for guidance.

Start the RAP-T conversation

Representing a school district?

Explore district  partnership options.