Grow Our Own teacher programs and initiatives help address teacher shortages, retention
issues, and teacher diversity. Hiring internal candidates who are already living and working in Baltimore County is a great way to ensure quality educators are working in our schools.
Motivated, well-qualified candidates are among our own paraprofessional workforce. Similarly,
the same opportunity exists with current BCPS students. Identifying various initiatives will
support efforts to increase an educator workforce that is representative of the student population BCPS serves as well as promote employee growth and development.
The Office of Educator Licensure collaborates with various internal and external partners to create various pathways for potential teachers of color to enter a
teaching career with BCPS in a manner that best fits their trajectory.
Baltimore Teacher Apprenticeship Program (BTAP) - BCPS/Loyola University Maryland Partnership
The Baltimore Teacher Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Loyola University Maryland provides apprentices with training with a cohort of peers and guidance from experienced teacher mentors. Apprentices will complete graduate coursework to earn a master’s degree in special education. While working toward licensure, apprentices will be assigned as a Paraeducator Special Education- BTAP and maintain active employment, compensation, and benefits. Participants will receive structured training and support throughout the program as well as beyond graduation.
Currently recruiting for program Year 3! Application deadline - August 2, 2026
BCPS-Loyola BTAP Flyer Fall 2026.pdf
BTAP Program Overview 2026
BTAP Program Schedule
BTAP Information Sessions - Register Here!
Attendance at this session qualifies applicants for a waiver of the $60 graduate application fee!
Program Requirements
* must happen concurrently
