Coker University’s APEC Named Registered Apprenticeship Program by U.S. Dep’t. of Labor

HARTSVILLE, S.C. (courtesy coker.edu) — Coker University’s Alternative Pathways to Educator Certification (APEC) program was recently named a registered apprenticeship program for K -12 teachers by the U.S. Department of Labor. As a Registered Apprenticeship Program, APEC will change traditional education programs by integrating classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Coker APEC Fellows will complete graduate-level coursework through the apprenticeship program and a year-long, work-embedded teacher residency.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in Coker’s commitment to bridge the gap in South Carolina’s teacher workforce. Cleveland Williams, representative for the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship, said, “Coker’s APEC Program meets or exceeds the current national K-12 Teacher apprenticeship guideline standards. It is our fifth registered apprenticeship program for K-12 teachers in the state. ”

Dr. Lisa Stockdale, Coker University dean of Education, stated, “Partnerships with Pee Dee school districts allow our APEC Fellows to gain hands-on experience and invaluable mentorship while getting a livable wage, working toward teacher certification and a master’s degree.”

Wendy Folsom, APEC Program Manager, added, “We know our program is changing the lives of our participants and helping create a sustainable pipeline of high-quality educators to our school district partners to better meet their needs.”

Coker’s APEC/Registered Apprenticeship Program began its first cohort with nine students working in three school districts — Dillon School District 4, Chesterfield County, and Darlington County.

Students will work in middle school band classrooms, as well as elementary, early childhood, and physical education classrooms.

Coker’s APEC Center of Excellence is partially funded by a grant from the S. C. Commission on Higher Education and a replication of Columbia College’s APEC program.

For more information about Coker University’s APEC and its Registered Apprenticeship Program, please visit coker.edu/coker-apec/ or contact Wendy Folsom at wfolsom@coker.edu.