THE ECHO

by Malak Marzak

Traditionally, high schools have been seen as preparing students for the future, but Avon High School’s cadet teaching program allows students to experience their potential future firsthand.

The program falls under the umbrella of work-based learning and is open to seniors. Through the program, students have the opportunity to explore a potential career in education. Under the supervision of Mr. Clark, who has led the program since 2019, students gain valuable hands-on experience in the classroom before graduation.

“The curriculum consists of three courses. The first course is called Principles of Teaching, the second is Child and Adolescent Development, and the third is Teaching and Learning,” said Clark.

The comprehensive curriculum covers what students will need to be successful beyond mentoring in the classroom, ensuring they are not left in the dark about their future career options. However, the program is not exclusively for prospective teachers, as senior Tomisin Adetoye illustrates.

“At first, I was going to be a nurse anesthesiologist, and I had it in the back of my mind that I might be a pediatrician. But through cadet teaching, I realized that I really do enjoy working with kids,” said Adetoye. “I plan on going into the medical field, and I feel like being a cadet teacher helped me learn how to work with younger kids.”

The program is an excellent opportunity to explore your compatibility with working with children. While open to all seniors, most students who enroll are prospective teachers and appreciate the chance to explore this career path.

“I did cadet teaching because I really want to go into art education, so I am doing it to become an art teacher,” said senior Brooke Williams.

The program not only equips students with valuable teaching experience but also teaches essential life skills they will need for the rest of their lives. It helps prepare students for what their potential future might look like.

“Most schools start around 8 a.m., but the Intermediate school starts at 7:30 a.m., so I’m there by 7:30 a.m. I go through three classes a day teaching. Sometimes I help with lesson planning, grading, or organization if needed,” said Williams.

Along with all the technical experience gained through the program, many students join for the opportunity to work with children. Many leave with memories they say will last a lifetime.

“Some of the things they say are so hilarious, and you’d never expect to hear them from a 10-year-old. But just seeing what they say and how they act is definitely the best part of the whole experience,” said Williams.

Overall, the program offers a rare opportunity to experience a potential career before committing to it in college. Many students recommend asking questions if there’s any chance they want to consider entering the program.

“Take the opportunity! Because going into college, you might back out. But with this, you can still experience it before making that big decision,” said senior Emma Walter.