The majority of certified teachers experience student teaching in the final chapter of their collegiate journey. Student teaching is like an internship: on the job experience prior to official teacher certification. Student teachers function as teachers working with the cooperating teacher to develop curriculum, assessment, and student management techniques.
Read on to learn more about one of our many dynamic duo teacher/student teacher partnerships happening now at Bridge Street Middle School!
Kylie Baker began her final year of college with a year long student teaching placement. Partnered with Mrs. Emily McEwen, 7th grade ELA teacher at BSMS, the pair hit it off from the start: “We meshed very well and were able to relate on common interests,” McEwen states, “Mrs. McEwen’s help and feedback made me ready to take the baton when she passed it,” Baker adds.
West Liberty University currently utilizes a year long placement allowing student teachers to fully immerse themselves into what it means to be a teacher in today’s world. Outside of the theories, lesson plans, and conversations about education are real kids excited to work with real instructors. This year gives student teachers the opportunity to hone their skills with a veteran teacher guiding them along the way. “In a classroom, we have to start with building positive relationships, and that translates to student teachers too,” states McEwen. “I have learned so much this year. It’s not as simple as just delivering content. It’s student management. It’s learning what makes each student tick so I can make sure the content is delivered in the right way,” states Baker before adding, “Mrs. McEwen showed me early on how to establish strong relationships and clear expectations. It’s been wonderful with her.”
Baker was inspired by a high school English teacher to pursue the profession. She finishes her placement in early May and hopes to find a job teaching English locally. Baker offered great advice to anyone interested in pursuing a career in education or anyone that will soon be student teaching: “Be flexible and reflective. Be able to make changes on the fly, and keep looking back at what you can do better.” This is timeless advice. Thank you Ms. Baker for being with Ohio County Schools during your placement, and thank you Mrs. McEwen for being a phenomenal cooperating teacher!
As student teachers finish their placements, we ask that they keep their eyes peeled on the OCS BOE website! You can see all current job postings under the “Human Resources” tab.
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