Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in Tennessee have access to various state and federal funding sources to help cover the costs of registered teacher apprenticeship programs. These funds can be used for tuition, tests, textbooks and stipends for mentor teachers. A key strategy for maximizing these resources is the braided funding model, which combines multiple funding streams to comprehensively support the program.

 

Braided Funding Graphic

This braided approach weaves together funds from four primary sources: Educator Preparation Providers (EPPs), LEAs, Workforce Development programs, and federal and state financial aid for apprentices. This integration allows for more flexible and sustainable funding solutions, ensuring each program’s unique needs are met.

Below is a comprehensive guide to the funding sources available to support these initiatives.

Key Considerations for LEAs

Each district is unique, and identifying appropriate funding sources is essential to supporting apprenticeship programs. LEAs should consider the following questions when planning:

  • How can you reallocate existing budget dollars, especially from unfilled roles, to support hiring apprentices?
  • Have you engaged with your Local Workforce Development Board (LWDB) or American Job Center to explore workforce funding opportunities?
  • Are there district, work-based learning, CTE, state, federal or foundation funds that can be utilized?

Suggested Funding Sources

Workforce Development Programs

Purpose: Support apprenticeship programs by providing financial assistance to employers.

Uses:

  • Tuition and related instructional costs
  • Stipends for mentor teachers

Details:

Tennessee’s nine LWDBs each have a process for distributing apprenticeship funds. LEAs should work closely with their local LWDB to access these resources. It is recommended that a standardized process be established across all LWDBs to ensure equitable access.

Visit the Grants for Training Webpage →

Purpose: Support workforce development and training, including apprenticeships.

Uses:

  • Tuition for related instruction
  • Tests and textbooks
  • Supportive services (e.g., transportation, childcare)

Details:

LEAs can partner with their local American Job Centers to apply for WIOA funds, which support both the apprentices and the programs that serve them.

Download the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Adult Programs PDF →

GYO WIOA flyer

 

Local Education Agencies

Purpose: Improve teacher and principal quality.

Uses:

  • Professional development and support for teachers, including mentor teacher stipends
  • Tuition for teacher apprentices

Details:

Title II funds can be used to implement and support teacher apprenticeship programs, including paying for mentor teachers who provide on-the-job training.

Download the Title II Funds Overview PDF → 

Title II Overview
Purpose: Support higher education initiatives, including teacher preparation programs.

Uses:

  • Tuition for related instruction
  • Tests and textbooks

Details:

THEC offers grants that LEAs can use to cover educational costs associated with teacher apprenticeship programs.

Visit the College For TN Website →

Purpose: Support career and technical education programs, including teacher apprenticeships.

Uses:

  • Tuition for related instruction
  • Tests and textbooks
  • Professional development for mentor teachers
PCRN logo
Details:

LEAs can apply for Perkins V funds to support both the technical and instructional aspects of teacher apprenticeship programs.

Visit the PCRN Website →

Purpose: Provide additional financial support through local sources.

Uses:

  • Mentor stipends
  • Instructional materials
  • Other program costs

Details:

LEAs should explore partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits and educational institutions to secure additional funding and resources for apprenticeship programs.

Purpose: Support the education of students with disabilities by providing resources for teacher apprentices and staff working with this population.

Uses:

  • Tuition for apprentices pursuing special education credentials
  • Stipends for mentor teachers in special education settings
  • Training focused on serving students with disabilities

Details:

LEAs can utilize IDEA Part B funds to support teacher apprenticeships aimed at training future special education teachers. These funds help cover costs related to instruction, mentoring, and professional development, ensuring apprentices are equipped to provide high-quality services for students with disabilities.

Visit the IDEA Webpage →

Purpose: Support the education of English learners by ensuring they attain English proficiency and meet academic standards.

Uses:

  • Tuition for apprentices specializing in English learner (EL) education
  • Stipends for mentor teachers working in EL classrooms
  • Professional development in EL instructional strategies and techniques

Details:

LEAs can use Title III funds to support apprentices preparing to work with English learners. These funds can cover tuition for EL-related coursework and stipends for mentor teachers, ensuring apprentices are well-prepared to support English learners in achieving academic success.

Visit the Title III Funds Webpage →

 

Federal & State Financial Aid

Explore our Sources of Funding for Teacher Apprentices document to learn about financial aid options like the Federal Pell Grant, Tennessee Reconnect, TEACH Grant and others. Eligibility for each program varies.
Registered teacher apprentices are eligible to use federal or local loan forgiveness programs to help with the costs of the training required to earn their teaching license. This support makes it easier for future teachers to complete their education and enter the classroom without the burden of additional debt.

Download the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Statement on Loan Forgiveness Programs for Teacher Apprentices PDF →

 

Additional Resources

This webinar series introduces LEAs and educator preparation program (EPP) partners to available funding resources and provides opportunities for questions and discussions.

The Grow Your Own (GYO) Cost Calculator helps aspiring apprentices estimate their financial aid eligibility. It allows them to share their estimated tuition and aid information with LEAs. GYO scholarships are applied as last-dollar scholarships alongside non-repayable sources of aid.