"For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease." - Job 14:7

The Gateway Woods School is offering an opportunity for education majors to refine their skills, gain practical classroom experience, and learn from professional teachers through the education internship position.

Two years ago, I worked alongside an intern, and her presence helped sharpen my skills, much like iron sharpening iron.

Interns work with teachers as they teach summer school for Gateway Woods’ residents Monday through Thursday, starting June 4 and ending July 19. For the first two to three weeks, interns observe as teachers turn lesson plans into daily activities, evaluate assignments and keep students focused and engaged, but often by the end of the third week, the interns are teaching part of the lesson while the teachers observe them.

And before summer school concludes, the interns are creating their own lesson plans and evaluative tools and using them in the classroom on their own. Interns observe and teach during the entire class time, from 1 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., but before that, they often consult with their mentor teachers and meet with the entire school staff as they discuss school policies and train. Through these opportunities, education interns can expand their skills and knowledge, as well as learn about day-to-day issues that schools must consider beyond the classroom. And though education interns grow professionally, they also help the school achieve its mission to inspire hearts and minds.

Two years ago, I worked alongside an intern, and her presence helped sharpen my skills, much like iron sharpening iron. As I would review my lessons and plans, her questions would challenge me to think through my own reasoning. Furthermore, as she assumed class duties, I could that additional spend time digging deeper into my curriculum to better prepare for the upcoming school year.