Student Teacher: 'It was one of the best experiences of my life'
Wilmington College’s Education Department celebrated the successful completion of the student teaching component for 19 of its soon-to-be graduates by holding its semi-annual Student Teacher Reception April 13.
(PICTURED) Senior Ashley Fox (RIGHT) chats with her cooperating teacher, Stephenie Eriksson, with whom she taught English at Blanchester High School, and Dr. Martha Hendricks, associate professor of education.
Each of the students — now officially known as licensure candidates — recognized a combination of their cooperating teachers, principals, superintendents and WC’s field experience personnel, many that were in attendance.
The College placed the education students in school districts of: Blanchester, East Clinton, Hillsboro, Ridgemont Local Schools, St. Albert the Great Catholic School, Western Brown and Wilmington.
President Jim Reynolds congratulated the students for achieving this milestone part of their journey into “this important and noble profession.” He told them to never underestimate the positive impact they can have upon children and, especially, to keep an eye out every day for that student that really needs them beyond the day’s simple academic lessons.
“Have empathy,” he said. “Students need you as both a mentor and as a good friend in times of need.”
Reynolds also told them to remember Wilmington College as a nurturing institution that has become part of their extended family.
Dr. Michelle Beery, professor of education and area coordinator, echoed those sentiments by stating that their professors would be here for them even after they graduate.
Cooperating teachers were introduced their former student teachers and gave them the opportunity to share some memories of what, for most, was among the most profound and important experiences of their young lives.
Comments heard from cooperating teachers included:
“She could walk into any classroom and begin teaching tomorrow.” “She came in ready to go and was excellent within the whole realm of teaching.” “Principals and superintendents, you need to take their names down.”
Also, “I had more challenging students this year than most, but she stepped up to the plate and did great.” I had in my classroom a wonderful, amazing and inspiring student teacher. The first thing I noticed about her was her passion — her connection to her students was amazing.”
“She was such a hardworking student teacher, who was never ruffled by anything that happened.” “My students were so sad when she finished — they’re going through withdrawals.” “She knows her content and she knows how to engage 10th graders.” “He was so well educated in the science content.” “He jumped right in with the kids. My students are missing him a lot.”
“She realized it’s not what she’s thinking, rather it’s knowing what the students are thinking.” “She had such a good rapport with her students. She went above and beyond expectations.” “I’ve had five or six student teachers, some better than others, but she’s by far the best. She was able to teach me things I didn’t know.”
“Now, she’s like a daughter to me. Someone’s going to get a great teacher!”
Licensure candidates also shared comments about their experience:
“She is a great teacher who helped me out a lot.” “My cooperating teacher was absolutely amazing.” “It was one of the best experiences of my life.” “I’m missing my kids so much.” “I was a student of hers in high school and then to be a student teacher with her was great — I learned so much.”
“I don’t think I could have asked for a better experience.” “She’s a teacher 120 percent and it was great to have someone like that support me every day. I was very blessed.” “I loved every minute of it.”
