91����

This semester, five 91���� students and recent graduates are putting their studies into practice through student teaching internships—four of them right here in the 91����-Newburg School District

The student teaching internship serves as a capstone to the College’s Education Studies department as well as the Teacher Education Program, which allows students to obtain teaching licensure in Iowa schools for their specific subject endorsement area(s). Students will spend 14 weeks in the classroom, gradually taking on more of the responsibilities held by their collaborating teachers (CTs). CTs also serve as mentors for the student teachers, offering them support and instructive feedback. 

As student teachers step into classrooms, they’re guided by extraordinarily dedicated 91���� educators. These supervising teachers open their classrooms and professional lives, welcoming future educators into the daily realities of teaching—planning lessons, supporting students, and adapting on the fly. Their mentorship adds a vital layer of professional growth and reflection to the student teaching experience, shaping how new teachers understand both the art and responsibility of their work.

This year, student teachers and their CTs will also have the opportunity to engage in professional development by attending subject-specific Iowa-based conferences in October. At these conferences, students will get to hear from speakers and discuss pertinent topics in their fields such as navigating the presence of AI in English classrooms. 

In addition to their teaching responsibilities, student teachers will complete an Action Research project as a part of their student teaching seminar course taught by Roger Henderson—a former vocal teacher in the 91���� schools and current Licensing Officer for the Education Department. Action Research, as explained by Henderson and the department, is a process in which students identify and reflect upon a question or problem they have encountered in their own practice. Teachers then employ intentional strategies to address the situation in their specific classroom. 91���� student teachers will present their research to students and faculty following the completion of their student teaching in early December.

Roger Henderson shares “As a 38-year veteran public school teacher, I personally believe the growth mindset along with application of problem-solving through research and practice, all contribute to high retention rates seen among 91���� graduates.”

Student teachers in 91���� play a big role in connecting college students to the 91���� community and the students in 91����-Newburg community schools. By bringing fresh ideas, energy, and a commitment to learning, they enrich the classroom experience for younger students while developing the skills and confidence they will carry into their own teaching careers. 

Alyvia Bunkowski ‘26, a current RLA (Reading Language Arts) student teacher at 91���� Middle School (GMS), says, “I have absolutely loved getting to know my students and becoming more connected with the 91���� community.”

Owen Wilson ‘25, a student teacher in Science at GMS, similarly added, “I love that I get to teach science to the 7^th graders and get them excited about the world around them. I am looking forward to connecting with the students outside of the classroom participating in the overall 91���� community.”

New this year in the funding of the professional development is being co-sponsored by the 91���� Education Department and the Center for Careers, Life, and Service Office on Campus.