When it comes to choosing electives, it can be intense, but for students who love working with kids, Aspiring Educators is an easy choice. This elective gives the upperclassmen an opportunity to explore education as a career, while also helping out students from Clay Lamberton or Berlin Middle School.
“Aspiring Ed is great for students to get that first-hand experience of what it’s like to be in the classroom and have a teacher’s duties,” Family and Consumer Education teacher Missy Daubner said. “This is a good way for high schoolers to see if being an educator is something they are interested in.”
The program is designed for students who are interested in a career in teaching. Beyond learning teaching skills, the class gives students a hands-on experience in their self-selected classrooms. This opportunity allows students to observe teachers and assist with lessons. Overall, the experience shows the qualities and skills one needs to become an educator.
“This program gives students another positive ‘adult figure’ to connect with and look up to, which can leave a lasting impact on their lives. It’s especially valuable for high school students who are considering a career in education, as it provides meaningful, hands-on experience,” kindergarten teacher Cortney Mullen said.
As a first time Aspiring Educator, junior Mia Ledesma shares an insight of her experience so far. During Ledesma’s second hour she makes her way over to kindergartener’s recess, she plays with them and helps them make their way back in. From there she goes into Mullen’s classroom and gives an extra hand to kids who need her assistance.
“I really enjoy it so far, it’s very fun working with the kids and helping them with their projects. It was also nice to get to know them since they have such big personalities. Sometimes it does get a little stressful since they have such little patience,” Ledesma said.
Although this class may seem like an easy credit, there is a lot more that comes with it rather than just helping kids. High school students must write in a journal after class every day and explain what it was that they did and what they learned.
“It is still a regular class, not a ‘blow off’ class. You have to write a journal every day and participate in biweekly discussion posts. It should be looked at as a job, meaning that a teacher is going to count on you so it’s important to call or text if you won’t be there,” Daubner said.
For many, this program is more than just a class. It’s an opportunity to make a difference, which can be eye opening. It takes patience, confidence, and effort to step inside a classroom. It allows future educators to have a head start into their careers while developing leadership, empathy, and communication skills.
“I always thought it’d be easy and relaxing to be a teacher since they have so much time off. But now that I am with the kindergartners every day, I see that there’s much more effort and work that goes into it,” Ledesma said. “Like dealing with all the kids’ emotions and helping them individually.”
