MCOE Paraeducator Apprenticeship Program Recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor
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MCOE Paraeducator Apprenticeship Program Recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor
The Merced County Office of Education (MCOE) Paraeducator Apprenticeship Program was officially recognized as a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) by the U.S. Department of Labor. RAPs are considered high-quality, industry-vetted and validated programs.
The milestone is considered a significant step towards building a skilled education workforce in Merced County.
“This Registered Apprenticeship creates an intentional bridge between workforce preparation and higher education,” said MCOE College and Career Coordinator Andrea Cruthird-Mays, “By investing in this program, we are investing in the future of our students and our community.”
The MCOE Paraeducator Apprenticeship Program combines hands-on training with college coursework at Merced College, where participants can earn up to 12 units toward a Child Development Associate’s Degree while gaining classroom experience.
Paraeducator apprentices are trained in areas such as infant and toddler development, preschool, transitional kindergarten (T-K), special education, P-3 credentialing and before- and after-school enrichment programs. Apprentices also gain progress toward California teaching credentials and permits to prepare them for careers across multiple educational pathways.