The U.S. Department of Education has invited Midland ISD Associate Superintendent Ashley Osborne to attend a groundbreaking meeting in Washington, D.C., next week. The meeting is set for July 27 at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C.
The joint meeting will focus on the creation of registered apprenticeships for educators to address the persistent issue of teacher shortages.
Osborne was previously executive director of talent development at Ector County ISD.
Teacher shortages have emerged as a pressing challenge, impacting school districts nationwide, including West Texas. To tackle the issue head-on, the Department of Education and Department of Labor initiated a partnership to explore innovative solutions through registered apprenticeships for teachers, a news release said. These apprenticeships would allow teacher apprentices to earn a good wage while learning the on-the-job skills necessary to provide a quality education.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of this conversation,” said Associate Superintendent Osborne, who brings extensive experience and dedication to education to the meeting.
Osborne will be joined by senior leaders from both agencies, key stakeholders, educational leaders and experts to design a framework for registered apprenticeships tailored to the unique needs of teaching. The meeting aims to identify best practices, establish guidelines, and explore funding options to ensure the success and sustainability of apprenticeships.
“By engaging in this collaborative effort, Midland ISD is demonstrating our commitment to finding proactive solutions to the teacher shortages,” said Osborne. “The meeting provides MISD the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that will impact the future of education.”
