DENMARK, S.C. — The Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation & Innovation (EPI Center) recently recognized 30 educators for successfully completing their apprenticeships. Registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, the Educators Prepared to Impact Communities (EPIC) Apprenticeship, is an alternative certification program designed to help classified school staff transition into licensed teaching roles.
The ceremony honoring this first-ever graduating cohort was hosted at Voorhees University’s Wright-Potts Library. During the event, all completers received Apprenticeship Completion Certificates from the U.S. Department of Labor, marking their successful conclusion of the program and recognizing the knowledge, skills, and on-the-job experience they developed. For these newly credentialed teachers, the day signified an official transition from apprentices to fully equipped classroom leaders.
Throughout the program, cohort members successfully balanced the demands of their professional roles with structured learning, on-the-job training, and continued development as educators.
“Their completion represents not only an individual achievement, but also an investment in strengthening the educator workforce and the communities served by their respective school districts,” said Margo Jackson, Apprenticeship Specialist for the EPI Center.
During their journey, the cohort achieved significant academic and professional milestones: eight apprentices earned bachelor’s degrees from Voorhees University, seven passed their licensure exams, eight became Teachers of Record and eight were approved for alternative certification pathways.
Pamela Taylor, a representative from Apprenticeship Carolina, commended the apprentices on their dedication, perseverance, and professional growth. “The EPIC apprenticeship demonstrates that talent can be found in places we sometimes overlook. It shows that when we invest in people who have already committed to serving in their communities, extraordinary things can happen.”
EPIC completer Shontai Stith-Miller, who works in the Sumter County School District, shared the personal impact of the initiative. “This program helped me become the educator I always dreamed of being. I learned the importance of collaboration and that it is okay to ask for help when you need it,” said Stith-Miller. “This program has helped me grow professionally and I am much more confident in myself. I am now an educator prepared to impact my community.”
Special recognition was given to Tyliya Moses, an EPIC completer and instructional assistant at Lee Central High School. Moses received the coveted Apple Award for her exceptional work in the program, academic accomplishments and service to the community.
Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell, CEO and Founder of the EPI Center, delivered the final charge to the apprentices.
“My charge to you is simple. Honor our commitment by continuing. If there is another exam to take, prepare and take it. If there is another requirement to complete, make a plan and follow through,” said Dr. Hightower Mitchell. “Leave here knowing you have something valuable to offer. Keep learning. Finish what you started. And help your students discover what this journey has shown you, a dream becomes possible when you put action behind hope.”
This inaugural cohort of 30 educators represents seven school districts across South Carolina:
Mentor teachers and district partners were also recognized during the ceremony. Participating districts included Allendale County School District, Calhoun County School District, Fairfield County School District, Lee County School District, Orangeburg County School District, Sumter County School District, and Williamsburg County School District.
About the EPI Center: The EPI Center is a national, self-sustaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit and comprehensive Educator Workforce Solution. Established in 2021 by Founder and CEO Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell on the campus of Voorhees University, the organization is dedicated to redefining educator preparation through pathbreaking, research-driven approaches. By providing a comprehensive continuum of services, the EPI Center equips educators with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to elevate teacher effectiveness and drive student success.
