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Bill

SB 5693

Concerning teacher residency and apprenticeship programs.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Conway and 1 co-sponsor

SB 5693 establishes or modifies Washington teacher residency and apprenticeship programs to expand alternative educator recruitment and training pathways.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education at 10:30 AM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5693

Legislative bill overview

SB 5693 addresses teacher residency and apprenticeship programs in Washington State, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative information. The bill was introduced by Senators Steve Conway and T'wina Nobles and is currently in the Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee following its first reading on February 6, 2025.

Why is this important

Teacher recruitment and retention remain critical challenges for Washington schools, particularly in high-need subject areas and rural districts. Residency and apprenticeship programs can create alternative pathways into teaching while building a more diverse educator workforce and addressing teacher shortages.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and costs: Determining who bears financial responsibility for residency/apprenticeship components and whether adequate state funding is allocated
  • Wage and employment protections: Questions about whether apprentices receive fair compensation and job placement guarantees upon program completion
  • Equity and access: Ensuring these pathways don't create disparities in who can afford to participate or which communities benefit from new teachers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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