Educational Assistant

The Educational Assistant Registered Apprenticeship allows students to earn while they learn as they complete an associate degree. Designed for those already working in schools, this program combines paid, hands-on experience with classroom learning through the Foundations of Teacher Education program. Apprentices develop real-world skills that directly connect to their coursework and future careers.

Work Description

Educational Assistants provide valuable support to school-age students with diverse abilities under the guidance and supervision of a licensed teacher. They develop the skills and knowledge needed to:

Use effective instructional strategies
Monitor student progress
Provide individualized support
Facilitate small group instruction
Deliver one-on-one assistance

Training

2 year program
3,000 hours of on-the-job training
400 hours of paid related instruction
Apprentices must complete associate degree
Financial aid available

Program Details

Fall start
Classes offered in a hybrid format
Financial aid available
$10,237 estimated tuition cost
Located in La Crosse

How to Apply

Secure Employment
- Obtain a position with a participating school district (employer sponsor)
Employer Completes Apprenticeship Contract
- Your employer works with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD)
Apply to Western
- Once the contract is approved, apply to the Educational Assistant Apprenticeship program

For questions regarding employer sponsorship, please contact:

Chelsea Will
Apprenticeship Engagement Specialist
Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
Cell Phone: 1-414-497-6916
Email: chelsea.will@dwd.wisconsin.gov

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

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.