Naysha Banks

For Naysha Banks, teaching wasn’t merely a dream—it was a plan. Long before she stepped into her own classroom, she knew exactly where she was headed. What she didn’t anticipate was how quickly the Hybrid Education Residency Opportunity (HERO) Registered Apprenticeship Program at Virginia State University (VSU) would accelerate her journey.

“My goal has always been to earn my doctorate before 30,” Naysha says. “But to move up in education, I knew I needed real classroom experience. Apprenticeship gave me that and more.”

A Strategic First Step

Originally from New York, Naysha joined the HERO Apprenticeship Program during the second semester of her junior year. She first learned about the opportunity through Dr. Bradley, who had several students already in the program. A guest visit by Mr. Mason during her emergent literacy course—and follow-up posts on Instagram—sealed her interest.

“I’ve always had a plan,” Naysha says. “Becoming an apprentice gave me the chance to get the kind of classroom experience I needed early. It was the natural next step.”

Finding Her Footing in a New World

In the HERO program, VSU seniors pursuing Elementary or Special Education licensure spend their entire senior year teaching in Petersburg City Public Schools while completing coursework online. Adjusting to life as a full-time teacher while still in college was a major transition—but for Naysha, moving to Virginia was already a big step. “I’m from out of state, so moving to Virginia was a culture shock. Even the school systems are different—back home, I learned using Common Core, but Virginia uses the Standards of Learning (SOL). That shift took some getting used to.”

Even with those challenges, she’s flourished. “This experience pushed me to self-reflect, to manage my time better, and to think more strategically. I feel more prepared to lead, and more grounded in who I am and where I’m headed.”

Beyond the Classroom

For Naysha, the value of Registered Apprenticeship extends beyond daily classroom instruction. “With field experience, you’re only in schools for a short time. But as an apprentice, you’re there for a whole year. You’re in meetings, at PDs, building real relationships.”

She’s built strong connections in the school and across the district. “I know who to contact in HR, who oversees math and English. I’ve had pop-in observations and joined real staff conversations. I’m not just watching from the outside anymore.”

Being placed with fellow apprentices also made a difference. “We support each other. We talk through our day. That kind of camaraderie matters.”

Advice for Future Apprentices

“Have a real conversation with yourself about where you want to go in education,” Naysha advises. “This program isn’t just about teaching—it’s about discovering your path. Whether that’s in the classroom, curriculum, or another part of the education system, this experience will prepare you. But you have to give it your all. Just like you committed to college, you need to commit to this.”

Growing Into Leadership

Since beginning her apprenticeship, Naysha’s life has transformed. “I went from living on campus and seeing my classmates every day to living on my own, becoming a Virginia resident, and stepping into a full-time professional role. My social life changed—but in a good way. I’m finding my independence.”

She’s maintained her grades, stayed active in student organizations, and continues to look ahead. “I still want to learn and grow. I love going to conventions and hearing from educators who’ve been in the field longer than I have. This apprenticeship helped me see what’s possible—and that I belong here.”