The Education Careers program at the New Castle Career Center (NCCC) equips students for employment in education and related services. This program serves as a foundational stepping stone for further education at post-secondary institutions, potentially leading to various child-related career paths. While gaining hands-on experience in the classroom, students earn 14 college credits.
Presently, 33 students are enrolled in Education Careers under the leadership of Education Careers Instructor Melynda Huckeby. First-year students are currently finishing EDUC 101 (Introduction to Teaching). In the second semester, they will tackle EDUC 121 (Child and Adolescent Development) and EDUC 201 (Technology in Education). Second-year students are taking a new course: EDUC 235 (Science of Reading). Their second semester will see them completing EDUC 230 (Exceptional Learners).
Learning Beyond The Classroom
In addition to their coursework, all students participate in practical learning through observational hours at designated laboratory site placements (participating schools). They are also active members of the Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) within the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). FCCLA is a nationwide CTSO for students involved in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education through grade 12. Following the lead of last year's participants, students will compete at the State Conference.
“I am blessed to work with such amazing future educators. Education has taken some ‘hits’ over the years, but my faith is restored when I see the passion and enthusiasm of our Education Professions students,” stated Mrs. Huckeby. “We grow to be a family with laughter, love, and occasional tears. They teach me valuable lessons every day. I am honored to be a small part of their journey.”
Catherine Willis - An Aspiring Early Childhood and Elementary Educator
Catherine Willis, a current Education Careers student intern, intends to pursue a double major in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education at Ball State University upon graduation. Her childhood development instructor influenced her decision to pursue the Education Career program at the New Castle Career Center.
Catherine commented on her experience, “I have loved so many parts of the education program, but my favorite has been the lab site time and building connections with the students and teachers in this community. When I think about my lab site students and experiences, my heart is full. I recommend that anyone interested in working with kids check out this program. The opportunities are endless, and I have been blessed with amazing experiences that I will hold on to forever.”
Rylee Miller's Aspiration to Teach High-Ability Students
Rylee Miller, also a current Education Careers student intern, aspires to pursue higher education in Elementary Education with a minor in psychology. She intends to attend either Purdue University or Ball State University to obtain a Master's Degree in Educational Psychology or Instruction and Curriculum, focusing on high-ability education. Upon completing her academic endeavors, Rylee dreams of teaching a 5th-grade high-ability class in Indiana.
Her 6th-grade teacher, Mrs. Durham, at Parker Elementary School, inspired Rylee to join the Education Careers program. “Mrs. Durham was the first teacher who made me enjoy learning and coming to school,” said Rylee. “I will always remember the science lessons that she would do with us. They were always hands-on, and I had a lot of fun in her classroom. I want to be able to get my students to engage in my lessons as much as she got me to engage in hers, which is one of the reasons I enrolled in the Education Careers program.”
Last year, Rylee attended the FCCLA State Conference, made new connections while strengthening old ones, and enjoyed the meetings and making memories.
Rylee highly suggests that students interested in pursuing a career in education should enroll in the Education Careers program full-time. “This program is such an amazing experience. You can learn so much about yourself and who you can be. You will leave the program knowing what you want to do in the future because there are so many opportunities given to you,” stated Rylee.
Mrs. Huckeby expressed her gratitude to the collaborating teachers and schools for making the Education Careers program a reality, emphasizing that their hospitality and support are essential to the success of these future educators.
Visit nccareercenter.org for more information about the Education Careers program and other programs available through the New Castle Career Center.