By: Richard L. Smith
Irvington Public Schools, in partnership with the Teacher Apprenticeship Network (TAN), has secured a $119,000 Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. 
This funding will support the creation of a high school apprenticeship pathway aimed at preparing students for careers as paraprofessionals in education.
The program will provide ten high school students with early exposure to the education field through structured work-based learning and training aligned with state standards.
Participants will receive the necessary skills and credentials to begin careers in education, serving as a foundational step toward developing a diverse, community-reflective teaching workforce.
Superintendent Dr. April Vauss expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “This partnership with the Teacher Apprenticeship Network represents a transformative opportunity for our students to embark on educational careers while still in high school.”
Kwamé Floyd, TAN’s Founder and Executive Director, highlighted the importance of investing in local talent early, noting, “Every community holds the talent to staff its schools—and we must invest in that talent early.”
This apprenticeship program complements Irvington’s broader efforts to enhance educational and career opportunities for students.
The district has previously secured significant grants, including a $7.5 million award for clean energy upgrades across its schools, demonstrating a commitment to both environmental sustainability and educational advancement.
Additionally, Irvington High School received a $196,000 PACE grant to establish a Fiber Optics Pre-Apprenticeship Program, providing students with cutting-edge technological skills and certifications.
The district’s dual enrollment program, in collaboration with institutions like NJIT and Essex County College, allows students to earn college credits during high school, further emphasizing Irvington’s dedication to academic excellence and student preparedness for higher education and future careers.
Through these initiatives, Irvington Public Schools continues to invest in the development of its students, fostering a future-ready community equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed.