PIERRE, S.D.(KELO)- State Education Department officials are looking for those who want to go to the head of the class.

Applications are open for the 4th Cohort of the South Dakota Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway.

It gives teacher aides and paraprofessionals the opportunity to become certified teachers.

DOE Director of accreditation and certification Dr. Kathryn Blaha says it’s a win for everyone involved.

Over 70 participants have graduated from the program, with nearly 60 of those participants signing teacher contracts.

Applications are being received through April 15th.