Design Considerations: Mentoring in K–12 Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Programs

This report was originally published by RTI International in May 2025.

Registered Apprenticeship (RA) programs are an evidence-based workforce development strategy geared toward positively impacting worker effectiveness, preparedness, and retention through paid on-the-job learning. Since 2022, K–12 teacher RA programs have been established in 48 states and Washington, DC. Apprentices rely on teacher mentors to model best practices and help them develop the skills and competencies to be an effective teacher. Program leaders are implementing a variety of practices—some guided by state requirements—to support the selection, training, compensation, and growth of mentor teachers.

This report offers illustrative examples and provides a planning tool to help guide mentorship design along five critical considerations:

1. Selection
2. Training
3. Roles and models
4. Compensation
5. Satisfaction and support

• What’s the Difference Between Grow Your Own, Teacher Residency, and Teacher Registered Apprenticeship? (New America blog post)
• How Teacher Apprenticeship is Changing Teacher Preparation (New America blog post)
• The What and Why of Educator Apprenticeship for Youth and Adults (New America video)