Elmbrook Schools proudly hosted a landmark event on November 21, marking a significant milestone in the field of education and workforce development. The Teacher Apprentice Signing Event celebrated the first-ever cohort of Wisconsin Teacher Apprentices from around the area, including Elmbrook's very own, Matthew Jacobson, the state's pioneering teacher apprentice. The roundtable discussion included school, state and federal officials such as Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, Amy Pechacek (Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary - DWD), David Polk (DWD), Deputy Administrator Megan Baird (US Department of Labor), and Nikki Churchwell (US Department of Education), among others.

Brookfield Elementary School hosted the signing, showcasing the collaborative efforts between Elmbrook Schools, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and districts across the state in launching the innovative Teacher Apprenticeship Program. This program is designed to address the growing need for qualified educators while providing aspiring teachers with valuable, hands-on experience through the earn-while-you-learn model.

"We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this initiative that not only supports our teacher talent pipeline but also sets a precedent for educational development across the state," said Pam Casey, Elmbrook’s Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. "Matthew's participation as the first-ever teacher apprentice is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive learning environment for our adults, as well as our students."

Wisconsin's Teacher Apprenticeship Program is a partnership initiative involving the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, various school districts, Wisconsin Technical College System, and Lakeland University. The program aims to provide participants with comprehensive training through classroom instruction and on-the-job learning, ultimately leading to a rewarding teaching career.

In his remarks, Matthew Jacobson, a 2023 Brookfield Central graduate, expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a pioneering program. "Being able to contribute to the future of education while simultaneously advancing my own career is a dream come true," said Jacobson. "This apprenticeship is a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and in the community."

The event featured speeches from Governor Tony Evers, teacher apprentices, state officials, and representatives from participating colleges and districts, followed by a signing ceremony that symbolized the official commitment of these promising educators to their teaching careers.

Elmbrook Schools' participation in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program highlights the district's dedication to innovation in education and its role as a leader in workforce development initiatives. With this program, Elmbrook Schools continues to build a robust talent pipeline that began with the LAUNCH Future Teachers program, ensuring that the district remains a top choice for education professionals in Wisconsin.

For more information about the Teacher Apprenticeship Program, please visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.