Educational Assistant

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

Program Structure

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

Program Outcomes

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

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

• 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.