Tech High School counselor, Erin Bloch, always had psychology in mind when she attended college, working full-time as a paraprofessional during the day at an elementary school and attending classes at night. Working with students day-to-day, however, made her rethink her direction of psychology. “[I started] looking at different careers and different areas where I … Read more
Students with special needs are acquiring new skills to ready themselves for the workforce after high school thanks to the new PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration System) Lab at Apollo and Tech High Schools. The lab is a simulated work environment where students can explore interests and discover strengths. “There are five different areas that PAES … Read more
Nick Wells, paraeducator at Lincoln Elementary School, had no thoughts of working in education. His career was retail management. However, his wife (a teacher) noticed how well he interacted with his customers – particularly kids – and suggested that he switch careers to education. It’s a decision he’s never once regretted. “I’ve always been a … Read more
Advanced classes require some “out-of-the-box” learning and teaching. Three advanced language arts teachers: Kelli Mauer at Kennedy Community School, Courtney Schumacher at South Junior High School and Morgan Barrett at North Junior High School are the perfect example of how teaching in an unconventional way can spur intentional engagement. Three years ago, Mauer, Schumacher and … Read more
“Who you gonna call?” asks second grade teacher Stephen Browning to his class at Talahi Community School. “Ghostbusters!” they respond back to him. It’s one of Browning’s dress-up days for his class, and his call and response is themed to match it. He’s been dressing up in character and creating themed content to make learning … Read more