Interim study to examine potential changes to Nebraska's teacher certification requirements to create an apprenticeship-based pathway for persons seeking to transition into teaching grades kindergarten through twelve

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kathleen Kauth

Nebraska LR 144 directs an interim study to create an apprenticeship-based path to K-12 teacher certification, aiming to address shortages while preserving high teaching standards.

Referred to Education Committee

Purpose and intent

Nebraska Legislative Resolution 144 proposes an interim study to explore changes to the state's teacher certification requirements in order to create an apprenticeship-based pathway for individuals who have equivalent education and professional experience and seek to transition into K-12 teaching. The resolution acknowledges ongoing teacher shortages, especially in rural and high-need districts, and suggests that an alternative, apprenticeship-focused pathway could help attract and retain qualified educators while maintaining high instructional standards.

Key provisions to be studied

The resolution directs the Education Committee to examine, among other things:
- (1) Barriers within Nebraska’s current certification process that hinder career transitions into teaching.
- (2) Best practices from other states (including apprenticeship models) for alternative certification.
- (3) Pedagogical and classroom-management training needed to maintain high-quality instruction in an apprenticeship program.
- (4) The role of school districts in designing and implementing apprenticeship programs.
- (5) How the State Board of Education would approve district apprenticeship programs and align them with state standards.
- (6) Criteria and processes for certifying individuals who complete an apprenticeship as Nebraska teachers.
- (7) Potential impact on addressing shortages in critical subject areas and geographic regions.
- (8) Statutory or regulatory changes necessary to implement an apprenticeship pathway.
- (9) Input from stakeholders such as the Department of Education, the State Board of Education, school district leaders, teacher preparation programs, educators, and others.

Who would be affected

Individuals with equivalent education and professional experience who wish to become K-12 teachers via an apprenticeship pathway.

School districts that may design and run onsite apprenticeship programs.

The State Department of Education and the State Board of Education, which would oversee standards, approvals, and alignment with state education goals.

Existing teacher preparation programs and educators who may participate in or inform apprenticeship models.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Introduced May 6, 2025; referred to the Executive Board and subsequently to the Education Committee.

Legislative action timeline noted:

2025-05-06: Introduced and referred to Executive Board
2025-05-06: Referred to Executive Board (duplicate noting)
2025-05-19: Referred to Education Committee

Directive to Education Committee: conduct the interim study and, upon conclusion, report findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature.

Outcomes and potential impact

LR 144 seeks to generate a comprehensive assessment of an apprenticeship-based teacher certification pathway as a means to address teacher shortages while maintaining quality standards. If the study identifies viable models and necessary statutory/regulatory changes, it could lead to pilot programs or reforms enabling district-led apprenticeships and new routes to teacher certification in Nebraska. The resolution is a planning step, not an enactment of new certification requirements. Primary sponsor: Senator Kauth.

Bill