(Estimated budget of $100,000 in 2027)
To encourage a well-educated, fairly compensated preschool early learning , the Castle Foundation invites a public-private “earn-and-learn” pathway that encourages new talent to Hawaii’s Early Learning workforce.
Consistent with Castle Foundation initiatives to advance the education of children 0-5, we invite joint public-private funding of a viable pilot project to implement a state-wide teacher apprenticeship program. Such a project requires sustainable funding and a clear public commitment to define and measure the efficacy of such a workforce initiative.
To encourage a public-private partnership, the Foundation will provide an initial $100,000 grant to the University of Hawaii College of Education and/or the Executive Office of Early
Learning. Assuming sufficient student interest, this grant may be extended by the trustee for an additional two years.
An early educator apprenticeship program is a paid, structured “earn-and-learn” pathway that brings new educators into the early-childhood field by pairing daily, hands-on work in a licensed preschool or childcare setting with guided coursework, coaching, and mentorship. Apprentices build core competencies in child development, safety, curriculum, and family engagement while gradually taking on more responsibility in the classroom. By the end of the program, participants earn industry-recognized credentials and are prepared to step confidently into assistant teacher or lead teacher roles, which strengthens the educational workforce and improves the quality of care and education for young children.
The core elements of a first-rate compensated apprentice program include:
- Paid employment in a licensed early – learning program
- Structured coaching from a mentor or coach
- Coursework aligned with state early learning standards
- Competency-based progression toward assistant teacher or lead teacher roles.
- Professional identity building for individuals new to teaching
- A clear career ladder into higher credentials and degrees.
Please contact Al Castle at the Castle Foundation for more information.