Appreciating Teaching: The Teacher Cadet program’s vision
The main goal of the Teacher Cadet class at Lakeview High School is to pave the way for future educators by offering real-world experiences.
Teacher Cadet offers students a multifaceted hands-on approach, surrounding the career of teaching. Teacher Cadet Instructor Elizabeth Curd is committed to instilling in her students the importance of the teaching profession.
“I’m trying to get them interested in maybe doing it as a career because it is fun…you get to mold little people and turn them into the most amazing people you’ve ever met in your life,” said Curd.
When in class, the cadets cover strategies on how to manage a classroom and maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment, which includes completing workshops that help future educators handle behavioral situations, learn about various teaching strategies, and build effective communication skills with students.
When they are not learning in class, they are in their placement three days a week, helping teach a class at one of the Lakeview district’s elementary schools. One of Curd’s challenges is matching these future educators up with their cooperating teacher, so they can make a good connection in the classroom.
Madison Geib, a student in the Teacher Cadet program, is a dedicated advocate for education.
“I have wanted to teach since I was in 5th grade. I want to try to have the same impact on younger students as my teachers had on me!” said Geib, ‘25.
Curd’s proactive approach and unwavering dedication has become the driving force behind teaching future educators to find profound joy in teaching to ensure the shaping of young minds for years to come.