“This increased investment in the state teacher apprenticeship program is a significant step in the right direction, and we applaud the Shapiro Administration, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).

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PEDC has advocated for Grow-Your-Own programs and paid teacher apprenticeships because we know they work — especially for paraprofessionals, career changers, and diverse future educators rooted in the communities they serve. These programs are vital to diversifying Pennsylvania’s educator workforce and ensuring every student is taught by someone who sees and believes in their full potential.

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This investment is worth celebrating and it's also a reminder of how much more is needed. As the state budget deadline approaches, we urge lawmakers to build on this momentum by fully funding student teaching stipends. With bipartisan support and strong public demand, this investment would remove a major barrier for aspiring educators — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — and continue to strengthen our educator pipeline where it’s needed most.”

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— Donna-Marie Cole-Malott Ph.D. and Karen Parker Thompson, MSOD, Co-Executive Directors, Pennsylvania Educator Diversity

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Read the official announcement for more details:

Supporting Pennsylvania Schools: Shapiro Administration Invests $7.76 Million | Department of Labor and Industry | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania