GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Wayne County has made history as the first in North Carolina to graduate a K–12 teacher apprentice through a pioneering partnership between Wayne Community College (WCC) and Wayne County Public Schools (WCPS). Angela Lamb’s graduation from the Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program marks a significant advancement in innovative teacher preparation and workforce development efforts within the state.
A Groundbreaking Partnership in Education
The Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program, launched by Apprenticeship Wayne, was established to address the increasing need for qualified teachers by creating a pipeline that combines classroom instruction with paid, on-the-job training. Supported by both the U.S. Department of Labor and ApprenticeshipNC, the program is part of a broader initiative to develop skilled professionals across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, automotive, HVAC, and education.
Initiated in 2019, Apprenticeship Wayne has grown to support nearly 150 apprentices statewide. In 2022, Wayne County Public Schools became the first K–12 district in North Carolina to partner as an employer in an educator apprenticeship program, collaborating with WCC and local universities to develop a model that couples academic coursework with practical teaching experience.
Angela Lamb’s Journey to Certification
A recent graduate of East Carolina University, Lamb completed her apprenticeship at Tommy’s Road Elementary School. Throughout her tenure, she worked under the mentorship of licensed teachers, leading lessons, supporting student learning, and fostering meaningful relationships with her third-grade students. Her hands-on experience was complemented by classroom instruction, providing her with a comprehensive pathway into the teaching profession.
One notable moment during her apprenticeship involved helping her students understand the word “imminent” while reading Gigi and the Wishing Ring, exemplifying how apprentices are already impacting student achievement and engagement.
Leadership Comments and Community Impact
Dr. Patty Pfeiffer, President of Wayne Community College, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “Angela’s graduation signifies a major milestone for North Carolina’s education community. It demonstrates how innovative partnerships can develop highly qualified educators from within our communities.”
Dr. Kristie Sauls, WCC’s Executive Director of Apprenticeships and Career Development, highlighted the broader significance: “Angela’s success showcases what’s possible when we invest in new pathways for aspiring teachers. This program not only benefits individual careers but also strengthens our entire education system.”
Superintendent Dr. Marc Whichard of WCPS underscored the importance of “grow your own” initiatives in addressing teacher shortages. “Our partnership with WCC and the implementation of this apprenticeship model allow us to cultivate a local, diverse, and highly qualified teaching workforce,” he said.
Supporting Future Educators
WCC further supports aspiring teachers through its K–12 Teacher Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which provides high school students with early exposure to the teaching profession. The program, delivered via the Teacher Cadet Program, allows students to earn college credit, participate in field experiences, and explore career opportunities in education, creating a seamless pathway into the full apprenticeship and teaching careers.
“Every student deserves a dedicated, well-trained teacher,” Sauls emphasized. “Our programs are designed to remove barriers and foster a sustainable, diverse educator pipeline.”
Looking Forward
Wayne County’s successful implementation of the educator apprenticeship program serves as a model for other districts seeking innovative solutions to educator shortages and workforce development challenges. Lamb’s achievement reflects the potential of community-driven initiatives to strengthen local education systems and prepare the next generation of teachers.
For more information about Wayne Community College’s apprenticeship programs, visit www.waynecc.edu or contact Kristie Sauls at kjsauls@waynecc.edu.
