Apprenticeship Idaho distributes over 3,000 books to schools across the state

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: Nov. 18, 2024
Media Contact: [email protected]

Over 3,000 free children's books about the value of apprenticeships were distributed by the Idaho Department of Labor and Apprenticeship Idaho to elementary school classrooms across the state in September.

Designed for K-5 students, "Booper Dreams Big: An Almost True Story of Apprenticeship" follows the journey of Booper the dog and his apprenticeship as a satellite technician.

Apprenticeship Idaho originally published the book in 2022, becoming one of the first U.S. government agencies to produce a children's book about apprenticeship.

Former AmeriCorps VISTA member Elaine Zabriskie wrote and illustrated the book. She now serves as project coordinator for the Idaho Workforce Development Council.

In honor of National Apprenticeship Week (Nov. 17-23), Apprenticeship Idaho is inviting elementary schools across the state to request free live readings of the book with Zabriskie.

"I am so happy to share the story of Booper with students across Idaho. Booper is a valuable story for kids because it shows that anything is possible with determination," Zabriskie said. "Booper has no experience prior to starting his apprenticeship, but with commitment and support, he proves that we can all achieve our biggest dreams."

Combining education with hands-on work experience, apprenticeships give individuals the opportunity to "earn while they learn." This career pathway shows promise in Idaho - since 2014, the number of new apprentices in the state has grown over 340%.

In addition to traditional fields such as the trades and construction, Registered Apprenticeships - those vetted and certified by the U.S. Department of Labor - are now available in emerging industries like advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity.

"Booper Dreams Big" is available in both English and bilingual versions (English and Spanish) with a free companion resource guide for teachers. To view the entire book online, go to apprenticeshipidaho.gov.

If your school is interested in doing a book reading with the author in the next few months, email [email protected].

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"Booper Dreams Big" was 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor by an Apprenticeship State Expansion grant totaling $1,331,490.75.

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