DEED Develops teacher Registered Apprenticeship framework in Alaska

The Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) convened a central stakeholder meeting in Anchorage Feb. 20 focused on developing a comprehensive Teacher Registered Apprenticeship framework, underscoring the state’s commitment to ensuring every student in Alaska has access to a high-quality educator.

Commissioner Deena Bishop welcomed 20 well-regarded leaders from university education preparation programs, Tribal entities, school districts, and career and technical education groups to the table, harnessing their expertise and diverse perspectives that are instrumental in shaping solutions that align with the state's educational goals.

Using recommendations from the Governor's Teacher Retention and Recruitment working group as a guide, the group addressed the pressing need for effective teacher retention and recruitment strategies across the state.

The Teacher Retention and Recruitment (TRR) Playbook is the result of research, survey data from over 4,000 educators across the state, and an action plan created by the Governor's Teacher Retention and Recruitment Working Group and input from hundreds of stakeholders. Contributors of the final Playbook included teachers, principals, superintendents, school board members, students, home school participants, special education participants, university members, and state government officials, with the purpose being to identify practical, professional, and policy recommendations to address Alaska's persistent issues with retention and recruitment. The TRR Playbook provides implementation strategies and recommendations for all stakeholder groups.

Since 2020, the State of Alaska has been working to improve teacher retention and recruitment. The first phase began with a directive by Governor Michael Dunleavy to form a working group to identify the root causes of Alaska’s teacher retention and recruitment issues and to propose solutions to better attract and retain great teachers. The second phase included the publication of a TRR Action Plan, along with complete TRR Survey Results and additional appendices and findings. The state of Alaska is currently in the third phase – implementation.

Commissioner Bishop challenged stakeholders to think creatively and collaboratively to address the unique challenges facing Alaska's education system. The commissioner emphasized cultivating educators from within local communities, a critical component in fostering a sustainable and resilient educational ecosystem.

“DEED remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering educators and enriching the educational experience for all students, and Alaska can achieve this by harnessing the collective wisdom and expertise of stakeholders.”

For more information about the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Playbook, please visit www.education.alaska.gov/trr