Delaware Launching New Pilot Program to Increase Teacher Workforce

SEAFORD, Del. – Delaware is launching a program to grow the state’s teacher workforce, with the first implementation taking place in the Seaford and Appoquinimink school districts this fall.

The Paraprofessional Registered Occupation (PRO) program seeks to offer an alternative pathway to teaching through apprenticeships in the state’s public and charter schools. It is geared towards paraprofessionals and recent high school graduates who seek to teach K-12 in their career.

Under the PRO program, graduates of the Teacher Academy, a Career and Technical Education program for high schoolers, will stay in classrooms while earning their college credits. Paraprofessionals seeking to complete their certification will also stay in classrooms while earning their 60 education credits.

Apprentices work full-time supporting students in classrooms while completing Associate’s Degree-equivalent coursework in the evenings and asynchronously. After two years, they will be ready to take the next steps toward becoming licensed classroom teachers.

“PRO strengthens our educator workforce by supporting paraprofessionals who already know our children, families, and schools,” said Delaware Secretary of Education, Cindy Martin. “This apprenticeship program removes unnecessary barriers, allowing them to keep making a difference while earning the credentials to teach. They’re not just earning degrees; they’re making an immediate, positive impact for students right now.”

The program is expected to be implemented statewide next year, but has already started taking root in the Seaford School District.

“It’s an investment in people we know are committed to staying with us and growing alongside our district,” said Nikki Miller, Seaford’s Supervisor of Instruction. 

The program is funded by the Delaware Department of Labor and supported by the Delaware Department of Education, Delaware Technical and Community College and Wilmington University.