WCPS Launches “Earn While You Learn” Teacher Program

SNOW HILL, Md. – Worcester County Public Schools are helping a new generation of teachers, “earn while they learn”, providing them with in classroom experience, without the debt of a degree.

Through a partnership at Notre Dame University of Maryland, WCPS, and sponsored by Maryland’s Department of Education, the apprentices are able to gain college credit through an interactive mentorship program paired with virtual learning. Juliann Dupuis is the Dean of the School of Education at NDMU, and explained the significance of a program like this.

“I mean, this is life changing, right?” Said Dupuis. “I mean, there, were tears shed at the signing session at Worcester, when, you know, they were announced, you know, who was going to be part of this program.”

The initiative is the first of it’s kind in Maryland.

“They will get to see the good and the bad.” Said Dupuis. “And you know what teachers have to go through and they, will walk away with such a valuable experience that when they take over their own classroom, nothing will be a surprise for them.”

The inaugural group includes 15 apprentices working within the school district. 11 of which, such as Ki-Jhae Bull, graduated from schools right here in Worcester County.

“Give you an opportunity to get the classroom experience, because it is hard for first year teachers and I feel like this experience can show you, okay, this is like more hands on, it is more hands on, and it’ll make your first year a little bit easier and less nerve wracking.” Said Bull.

The program may take anywhere from 1-3 years for participants to complete, based on prior credits.