Barton Community College will host an informational fair about a new statewide education apprenticeship program created by the Kansas Department of Education (KSDE) from 6:30-8 p.m. on Feb. 15 in the Cavanaugh Room in the Barton Library, and a virtual fair will be held Feb. 26.

The apprenticeship program was designed to provide a pathway for teacher certification that allows an apprentice to work for a school district while pursuing their degree in education. Students interested in a career in education are invited to attend along with community members and school administrators. Each fair will provide a presentation from KSDE representatives about the new apprenticeship program. Executive Director of Foundational Education Stephanie Joiner said the program’s goal is to support an increase of educators in the service area.

“Barton is committed to supporting the development of educators in our service area,” she said. “We have been presented with a wonderful opportunity through the KSDE’s Statewide Apprenticeship Program to do just that.”

Barton was named as a preparation site for the new apprenticeship model, which is a four-year competency-based teaching program. As a result of this designation, students and community members who want to become apprentices in their school district can get started on their courses close to home.

For more information on the upcoming fairs, visit education.bartonccc.edu. For details on KSDE’s program, visit ksde.org.