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Teacher Apprenticeship-SOTA

Applications for Journeyworkers and Apprentices for the 2026/27 academic year are now open! Click the link below to apply!

 

Program Description: 

By reimagining teacher preparation programs using the apprenticeship model as an alternative path for those wanting to become a licensed teacher, WPS is excited to present SOTA!

Scholars Of Teaching Apprenticeship (SOTA), a collaboration between Willmar Public Schools and Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) School of Education, is a 3-year apprenticeship program for candidates seeking a teaching license in Elementary Education and Academic and Behavioral Strategist (ABS).  Each Teacher Apprentice will gain classroom experience as a WPS employee while receiving extensive coaching from a licensed Journeyworker teacher in a PK-12 SOTA classroom and complete the required coursework through SMSU. SOTA will recruit a maximum of 20 apprentices each cohort.

Current Status of The Program

  • SOTA’s first cohort began in August 2025, with plans to add a second cohort in August of 2026
  • Applications for SOTA Apprentices (Cohort 2) open on December 16th, 2025 and close on January 30th, 2026
  • Interviews for Apprentices are scheduled for February 11th and 18th
  • Applications for SOTA Journeyworkers open on December 16th, 2025 and close on January 30th, 2026
  • Interviews for Journeyworkers are scheduled for February 25th and March 4th
  • Grow Your Own Grant funds have been secured to support the SOTA program
  • We continue to seek additional Grant funds

SOTA Journeyworker Job Description

SOTA Teacher Apprentice Job Description

Journeyworker FAQs

Apprentice FAQs

SOTA Details

Why SOTA?

SOTA offers a learn-while-you-earn pathway that allows aspiring teachers to develop their practice in a real classroom setting while being supported throughout the licensure process. Apprentices engage in a hands-on, applied learning model that emphasizes growth, coaching, and professional skill development.

How the Apprenticeship Works

SOTA is structured as a three-year apprenticeship built around clearly defined roles that support apprentice growth:

  • Teacher Apprentice
     Builds instructional skills while working in schools and progressing through licensure requirements.
  • Journeyworker Teacher
     Serves as the cooperating teacher and provides day-to-day mentoring and coaching.
  • SOTA Coordinator/Navigator
     Oversees communication, coordination, and ongoing program support.

Learning Model

The program blends:

  • On-the-job learning in K–12 classrooms
  • Related technical instruction through university coursework
  • Ongoing mentorship and coaching from experienced educators

This integrated approach allows apprentices to immediately apply learning in authentic classroom contexts.

What a Day May Look Like

Apprentices balance classroom responsibilities with protected learning time. A typical day may include:

  • Dedicated apprentice learning time
  • Working in classrooms as a paraeducator
  • Opportunities for reflection, planning, and skill development alongside a Journeyworker

This structure supports both professional learning and meaningful classroom experience.

Program Impact

SOTA supports:

  • The development of high-quality, classroom-ready teachers
  • Stronger recruitment and retention within the profession
  • Reduced barriers to entering teaching through a supported, structured pathway

You may contact Josie Ammerman at sota@willmar.k12.mn.us with any questions.

 

Interested in Becoming a Licensed Teacher?

Willmar Public Schools is committed to supporting future educators. Through TeachMN, paraprofessionals, support staff, career changers, and aspiring teachers can access free resources to help navigate the path to teacher licensure.

TeachMN offers:

  • Guidance on teacher preparation programs

  • One-on-one coaching and support

  • Information about financial assistance opportunities

  • Application fee reimbursements and scholarships

Whether you're just beginning to explore a career in education or ready to take the next step toward licensure, TeachMN can help.

Learn more and get started today at TeachMN.org.

Learn About the SOTA Program