Dean Burns Represents Pennsylvania at International Teacher Apprenticeship Summit in Oxford

From Kutztown University

Dr. Rebecca West Burns, dean of the College of Education at Kutztown University, represented Pennsylvania as part of a 40-member U.S. delegation at the Teacher Apprenticeship Summit held in Oxford, England. Delegates from Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Arkansas gathered for this intensive multi-day event, funded by Craft Education, to explore global models of apprenticeships and develop state-specific action plans to strengthen the educator workforce.

The Summit brought together education leaders, policymakers, and workforce experts to examine how apprenticeship models — widely used in other professions — can be adapted to address teacher shortages and improve educator preparation. Participants engaged in deep learning around international apprenticeship systems, shared challenges and innovative solutions, and collaborated to design actionable strategies tailored to their states.

Burns’ participation underscores Kutztown University’s growing reputation as a forward-thinking institution in teacher education. Her presence at the table ensured that KU’s voice — and that of the broader PASSHE system — was part of a national conversation shaping the future of educator preparation in the commonwealth and across the United States.