Educational Assistant

Courses in the Registered Apprenticeship (RA) align directly with the Foundations of Teacher Education associate degree program. View the Foundations of Teacher Education courses. Apprentices take courses alongside other degree-seeking students while completing their two-year apprenticeship.

• Program courses are offered in the evening
• General education courses are available in multiple formats, including online and in-person

View the Foundations of Teacher Education program page for admissions requirements, software & technology requirements, and additional information

• Instructional Assistant
• Special Education Paraprofessional
• Early Education Teacher
• Teacher Assistant

The program also provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing continued education through transfer pathways to four-year institutions, including 2+2 pathway opportunities and transfer agreements with Viterbo University that allow students to seamlessly continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree.

All programs at Western prepare students for success in a free-enterprise society through human experiences that integrate:

• Cultivating passion
• Living responsibly
• Refining professionalism

In addition, this program will prepare students to:

• Support student learning during classroom (academic) instruction
• Monitor student progress
• Support students in non-academic settings
• Provide students with social, emotional and behavioral support
• Assist with support of student health, safety and personal care
• Provide classroom and administrative support
• Communicate and collaborate with lead teacher(s) and other staff
• Participate in professional growth and development

• Exhibit A: Apprenticeship Terms, Occupational Skills, Work Process Schedule, Wage Progression (PDF)
• What makes this especially practical for school districts:
  • Immediate classroom support – Apprentices fill paraprofessional and TA roles right away
  • Grow-your-own teachers – Build a pipeline of future educator already familiar with your district
  • Upskill your current staff – Support paraprofessionals in advancing their education
  • No disruption to the school day – All related instruction is offered in the evening. However, 4 hours of paid release time during the college semester shall be given to attend classes or work on coursework. 
  • Structured training + mentorship – Ensures apprentices are building real skills that support student success 
  • Grant funding support available for fall 2026 – Rural districts are eligible for up to $10,000 to support wages or tuition costs. In addition, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development has funding available that can help cover tuition during the first year of the apprenticeship.