The Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation (EPI) officially launched its EPIC (Educators Prepared to Impact Communities) Apprenticeship program this week. EPIC is registered with the United States Department of Labor.
This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in the EPI Center’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational and professional opportunities for future educators. The EPIC Apprenticeship program enhances workforce readiness, fosters skills development, and creates pathways to meaningful educational careers.
EPI Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell, says the apprentices must already be employed by a school district to participate.
“We are beginning the program with 30 educators in Calhoun County School District, Fairfield County School
District, and Georgetown County School District. There will be 10 educators from each district, and they can complete the program in one or a maximum of four years, depending on the pace of the apprentice,” Dr. Hightower Mitchell said. “By providing opportunities for aspiring educators to apply their learning under the tutelage of a team of effective
educators, the EPIC Apprenticeship will advance our efforts to develop and sustain an in-to-end pipeline of educators who are well-prepared to lead today’s classrooms and move student learning forward.”
The EPIC Apprenticeship will help address the growing demand for skilled educators nationwide. According to EPI
Senior Strategist for Residency and Apprenticeship, Margo Jackson, after successful completion, the apprentices will be positioned to enter one of the district-partnered certification programs of choice while serving as teacher of record.
“What’s great about this program is that apprentices can obtain paid work experience and receive industryrecognized and nationally portable credentials while gaining workplace-relevant skills,” said Jackson. “By pairing classroom learning with real-world experience, this program provides apprentices with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in the ever-evolving education landscape.”
Today’s launch coincides with National Apprenticeship Day and was held at Aloft Downtown Columbia, located at 823 Lady Street, Columbia, SC.
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