Sierra Vandermark, (left) Stacey Sparks and Justin Evans, all 11th graders at Richmond Early College High school write reflections on their experiences working in Richmond County Elementary Schools. Students volunteer within the K-5 schools for at least three hours per week as part of a new work-based learning program.
Richmond Early College High student Stacey Sparks says she wants to be a Kindergarten teacher one day, as a result of a unique program that allows her to travel to Richmond County elementary classrooms several times each week.
The work-based Learning program allows Early College students in their junior year, to work as student assistants in the K-5 grade level schools. These students help area teachers by serving as tutors, conducting story time, creating bulletin boards, and helping students with computers. The students design plans for their time in classrooms, just as teachers create lesson plans. Other students are doing their work based learning on Richmond Community College’s campus for departments such as the Print Shop, Maintenance Department and Continuing Education.
Sierra Vandermark, an 11th grade student, participates in the program within the elementary schools said she thinks it has been great for everyone who has participated.
“We’ve learned a lot about the real-world and the responsibilities of every day life.” Vandermark said. “I don’t think any of us realized before just how much time teachers spend each day planning. The responsibility of keeping 20 or more children engaged is huge.”
Lawanda Walker, the principal of Richmond Early College brainstormed the idea last year, as a way to give her students an opportunity to actively work in the community. Annette Reed, Career Coordinator for the school, began the pilot program this year, and says that it provides a great hands-on learning experience for students.
“We want our students to begin to understand the link between what they learn in school and what goes on in the world of work.” Reed said “This experience will help improve their academic and socialization skills.”
Reed has been impressed with the positive feedback from students who enjoy the program, but is even more impressed with what she has heard from teachers who work with them.
Allison Nicely, a fifth grade teacher at Washington Street Elementary School, says her students loved having Early College student Erica Nichols in their class several days a week.
“My students developed a bond with her almost immediately.” Nicely said. “She has such a great personality, and she really knew how to make them feel comfortable. Having her work with us has been such a breath of fresh air. I hope the Early College will continue to allow students to help us in this way.”
The students have been required to maintain portfolios and write reflections on their experiences.
Justin Evans, an 11th grade student said students have told him that they look to him as they would an older brother.
“It’s amazing to see these young students, and how much they look up to me.” Evans said “I try my best to set a positive example for them, to always be cheerful and respectful, and like a big brother to them.”
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