When timelines are compressed, quality suffers. Or so we thought. Two future educators are challenging that long-held belief, taking a compressed approach through apprenticeship and licensure. Rashael Golgart and Sparkiel Haley’s choice to pursue teaching careers through an apprenticeship approach is paying off. Not only are they well on their way to their own classrooms, the Nevada State Labor Commission recognized their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to Nevada students with outstanding teacher apprentice awards this year.

For Karen Cantrell, Mountain View Elementary isn’t just where she works—it’s where her dreams are taking shape. A lifelong Elko resident, she’s been part of the school community for more than a decade, first as a lunch lady and now as a paraprofessional supporting kindergarten through second grade special education students. Today, she’s also a student, working toward her teaching degree through UNLV’s Nevada Forward™ apprenticeship program.