For the fall 2020 semester, there are nine education majors enrolled in their clinical practice (student teaching). Most students are placed in Salina, or McPherson, but there are a few students who have been placed out of the area. Four students are completing experiences in secondary education, two students with PE/Health, two students with elementary education, and one student in art education.
Student teachers started the semester with many unknowns. Most were not sure what their student teaching experience would entail in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the schools started later than originally planned, but all of the students and their cooperating teachers have risen to the challenge, and are off to a great start! The student teachers have learned the value of being adaptable in unfamiliar circumstances and have maintained their positive attitudes. The Education Department faculty agreed they are "proud of how willing their student teachers have been to adapt to what's been an atypical and stressful year in higher education. If they're learning anything, it is to be flexible!"
"The most challenging thing has been getting used to the hybrid schedule that McPherson is following! But, it has been a good experience so far!"--Secondary Social Studies
"Getting the chance to teach younger students has definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I have loved getting to know my new students and hearing their stories. They have amazing little personalities and imaginations. I would say that throughout the last few weeks I have learned that flexibility is key and that you can create meaningful lessons for your students even within a small window of time."--PreK-12 Art
