BOLIVAR, Mo. — Southwest Baptist University’s Division of Education is encouraging current and future educators through multiple initiatives. The Missouri Department of Education reports that enrollment in Missouri teacher preparation programs has declined more than 25 percent during the past decade. Additionally, the rate at which teachers leave the profession is higher than the national average.
“News headlines are full of doom and gloom regarding the teaching profession, but
they seldom share about how rewarding it is to be an educator,” said Dr. Kevin Patterson, head of SBU’s Division of Education, and former superintendent of the Ozark School District. “To serve children and make
a difference for the future of our country is truly rewarding. After 34 years in this
business, I would not change any of my career choices. Our future can only be bright
if we have quality people to help lead and serve the next generation.”
SBU is hosting Education Day on Friday, April 1, for high school juniors and seniors to learn more about pursuing a rewarding career in education. Dr. Pam Hedgpeth, executive director of Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts, is the keynote speaker.
“Pam has a passion for education, specifically for training and supporting school leaders,” Patterson said. “She will give students insight into a career in education and inspire them to be servant leaders in the classroom.”
For more information about Education Day or to register for the event, contact Dr. Kevin Patterson at kpatterson@SBUniv.edu.
Other SBU initiatives to recruit and train future educators include:
Dual-enrollment in entry-level education courses — High school juniors and seniors who are interested in a college degree in education can take two education courses as dual-enrollment through SBU. Foundations of Education and Educational Psychology normally are taken during a student’s freshman year of college.
“Students are welcome to attend classes on our Bolivar campus, but if they are not close enough to do that, they can join class sessions via Zoom,” Patterson said. “Taking these classes in high school will help students confirm whether they are interested in education. It also can accelerate completion of the teacher preparation program.”
Articulation agreements — Within the past year, SBU has signed articulation agreements with two community colleges for elementary education majors. At both Ozarks Technical Community College and East Central College, students completing an associate of arts in teaching will have a smooth transition into SBU’s bachelor of science in elementary education program.
BearcatsTeach internship program — In partnership with the Bolivar School District, education majors at SBU can participate in BearcatsTeach, a paid internship program. Through the internship, students are substitute teachers one, two or three days per week in Bolivar schools and receive college credit. Students also receive extra support from a mentor teacher at the school and SBU’s education faculty.
“This program is a win-win for SBU students and the Bolivar School District,” said Dr. Jennifer Fox, associate professor of education and certification officer. “Students benefit from extra mentorship and gain valuable experiences before entering their own classrooms.”
*Published: 2-22-2022