WILMINGTON — Wilmington College’s Education Department celebrated the successful completion of the student teaching component for more than a dozen of its soon-to-be graduates by holding its semi-annual Student Teacher Reception April 19.
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, Upper Sandusky, Wynford, Lynchburg-Clay, Lebanon 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.
The field placement staff introduced their students, who in turn introduced their cooperating teachers and administrators, all of whom had an opportunity to share some memories of what, for most students, was among the most profound and important experiences of their young lives.
Comments from cooperating teachers give insight into the positive affect WC students had in their classrooms and offer a taste of what the emerging teachers are capable of as they progress in their careers:
“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.” “You have become the teacher that every parent should want teaching their children.” “His biggest growth area was in his confidence — we threw him to the wolves.”
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.”
These comments typify what WC’s licensure candidates feel about the profound experience of student teaching:
• “It was one of the best experiences of my life.”
• “I’m missing my kids so much.”
• “I learned there’s a reason for every student’s action. You should try to understand them, not judge.”
• “The biggest thing I learned was patience.”
• “I don’t think I could have asked for a better experience.”
• “I loved every minute of it.”
