Student/Parent FAQ
What are the eligibility requirements to become a Registered Youth Apprentice?
To be considered, students must:
- Current enrollment in a Career and Technical Education Course*. If not currently enrolled, speak to your counselor about future enrollment and eligibility.
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in the career emphasis relevant to their apprenticeship.
- Maintain at least a 95% high school attendance record.
- Have no major disciplinary issues associated with school or the community.
- Be at least 16 years of age at the start of the apprenticeship.
- Be on target for high school graduation (sophomores through seniors may be candidates).
- Possess a valid Missouri driver's license or have reliable transportation to the employer's job site.
- Have a sincere interest in the career path related to the apprenticeship occupation.
- Score at least 3.0 on the workplace readiness scale in the relevant career emphasis. This can be obtained from the CACC Coordinator of Business and Industry.
- Be authorized to work in the United States.
- Obtain teacher and director recommendations for apprenticeship consideration.
How does scheduling work between school and my apprenticeship?
Your On-the-Job Learning hours are scheduled around your high school class schedule in coordination with your employer, school counselor/instructor, and CACC Coordinator of Business and Industry.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes. Apprentices are paid employees of their partner employer for the hours they work.
What if a student starts an apprenticeship and decides it's not a good ‘fit’?
Each apprenticeship has a probationary period. Following this period, students or employers may determine the placement in not a good ‘fit.’ However, students are encouraged to finish the semester in their placement so that their grades are not negatively impacted.
Will a Registered Youth Apprenticeship prevent a student from attending college?
No. RYA is recognized by DESE as a legitimate post-secondary pathway alongside two-year college, four-year college, military service, and direct workforce entry. It provides a nationally recognized U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Completion, documented occupational skill attainment, and — depending on the pathway — industry certifications or credit that can carry directly into further education or employment after graduation. Apprenticeships are designed to complement all post-secondary plans. Many apprentices go on to two-year or four-year colleges, and some programs offer articulated college credit toward a related postsecondary program. Apprenticeship is an opportunity multiplier giving students real-world experience and clarity about their career path.
Will apprentices be safe and supported at their worksite?
Yes. Employer partners are required to maintain a safe workplace, follow all applicable workplace safety policies, provide a supervising mentor, and participate in progress reviews with the CACC Coordinator of Business and Industry, who monitors the apprenticeship throughout its duration.
Who can I contact to apply or with questions?
The CACC Coordinator of Business & Industry is available to answer questions and walk you through the process.
