North Dakota launches first-in-nation 'lead teacher' apprenticeship program

North Dakota has become the first state to receive approval for a "lead teacher" apprenticeship program, according to State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler. The initiative aims to change classroom instruction and school leadership by implementing a team-based teaching model.

The Fargo and Northern Cass school districts will participate in the pilot program during the upcoming school year. Fifteen teachers from these districts will undergo specialized training this fall as part of the effort, which is being developed in collaboration with Arizona State University.

The lead teacher approach involves teams of educators, each with specific expertise, working together rather than having a single teacher assigned to each classroom. Each team is led by a designated lead teacher who must complete 10 “micro-credential” courses to earn certification from the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction.

Baesler said the new method provides students with more comprehensive and personalized instruction while giving teachers additional support and opportunities for career advancement. "Students receive more thorough, comprehensive, and personalized instruction from the method, while teachers have less pressure and more peer support in their jobs, as well as new opportunities for advancement," Baesler said.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s approval makes North Dakota eligible for federal grant funding to support the program. The Burgum Foundation, based in Fargo, has contributed $140,000 toward training lead teachers. Organizers are seeking further philanthropic backing.

This initiative is part of broader efforts by Baesler and the Department of Public Instruction to address ongoing teacher shortages in North Dakota. Other programs include federally and state-supported apprenticeships that help paraprofessionals working in classrooms become certified teachers. A separate apprenticeship track is also available for those training to be future school principals.