District 214 offers a variety of youth apprenticeship programs, including registered apprenticeships, which meet standards defined by the United States Department of Labor, and youth apprenticeships.

Youth Apprenticeships are employer-driven, “learn while you earn” models that combine structured paid on-the-job training (OJT) with job-related technical instruction (RTI). These allow students to become proficient in a set of industry-recognized competency standards, which may lead to an industry credential. Instruction and technical training related to the apprenticeship is provided by the high school, technical schools or community colleges while the on-the-job training occurs at a worksite. The goal is to create students with advanced skill sets that meet specific employer needs. Oftentimes, employers hire students who have been through their apprenticeship program as full-time employees upon graduation and cover additional training and certification expenses.

In partnership with local employers, District 214 apprenticeships are currently offered in the fields of:

• Athletic Training Assistant
• Automotive: Technician and Body Repair
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Construction and Trades
• Early Childhood Education
• Graphic Arts
• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
• Information Technology 
  • AI/Development/Programming
  • Cybersecurity
  • IT Generalist/Help Desk)
• Legal Assistant
• Library Assistant
• Manufacturing
• Multimedia
• Pharmacy Technician
• Professional Cook
• Veterinary Technician Assistant
• Water Operator

A student who is interested in participating in an apprenticeship during their senior year must be committed to the program and work together with their counselor to ensure all required coursework fits into the student’s four-year academic plan. Important: All apprenticeships require that specific coursework be completed prior to the start of the apprenticeship; in other words, completed during the student’s freshman, sophomore and junior years of high school.

A student participating in an apprenticeship should expect a non-traditional senior year schedule. The student will attend classes at their high school, commute to an employer to work and may also be enrolled in coursework at a community college. Each apprentice will have a very customized schedule based upon when they need to be at the employer's site for their on-the-job training and when their coursework is offered.  

Apprenticeship opportunities are dependent upon employer participation and program capacity. Transportation will be provided if needed.

To learn more about participating in an apprenticeship, students should contact their building Student Success Coach.

Click here to watch our High School District 214 Youth Apprenticeship Model 101 video.