Sponsored by: Educator Preparation and Innovation Center (EPIC)
By: Tracy Sanders, Publisher
tracy@thewoodrufftimes.com
Educators and aspiring teachers from across South Carolina will gather on Saturday, April 25, for a hands-on apprenticeship showcase celebrating National Apprenticeship Week and highlighting innovative pathways into the teaching profession.
Hosted by the Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation (EPI Center), the event will take place in Batesburg-Leesville from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will center around this year’s national theme, “America at Work.”
The showcase will feature an apprentice-led format designed to highlight real-world experiences and workforce development in action. Attendees can expect a panel discussion with current apprentices, interactive mini-lessons, and opportunities for collaboration among educators and community stakeholders.
The program will begin with welcome remarks and an overview of National Apprenticeship Week, followed by an “Apprentices at Work” panel featuring participants from multiple school districts. These apprentices will share firsthand insights into their journey through the program and their transition into teaching roles.
Participants will then move into interactive sessions where apprentices will lead live demonstrations, giving attendees a closer look at classroom strategies and instructional techniques.
The event will also include networking opportunities and guided discussion circles focused on strengthening South Carolina’s educator workforce and building sustainable career pathways. The program will conclude with apprentice recognition and closing remarks from Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell, founder and CEO of the EPI Center.
The showcase comes at a time when the EPIC Apprenticeship program is gaining statewide recognition as a solution to South Carolina’s teacher shortage. The program, registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, provides an alternative pathway for school staff to become licensed teachers while continuing to work in their communities.
According to the EPI Center, 75 percent of current apprentices are on track to complete their on-the-job training within one year. Several participants have already passed licensure exams, with more preparing to graduate and step into full-time teaching roles this spring.
“This program is about building from within,” said Margo Jackson, Educator Support Specialist for Apprenticeship. “By investing in people who are already part of the community, districts are creating a stronger, more sustainable pipeline of educators.”
The April 25 event will serve as a kickoff to National Apprenticeship Week, which runs April 26 through May 2. Celebrated nationwide, the week highlights the role of registered apprenticeships in developing a skilled workforce and expanding access to career opportunities.
Organizers say the showcase is not only a celebration, but also a call to action, encouraging communities to support innovative solutions that address workforce needs while creating meaningful career pathways..
