Real experiences engage students, even virtually!
I participated in the ElevateEdAZ Educator Externship experience this past fall because I wanted to get a more accurate perspective on the types of skills employers are looking for in our new graduates. This is particularly important to me, as my students all engage with a Career and Technical Education pathway in computer programming or cybersecurity, can participate in internships with local businesses as seniors, and could potentially be employed in their industry directly out of high school.
Phoenix Coding Academy is unique in that we ask students to engage with an integrated project four times throughout the year in which they apply their understanding of not only each of the courses they are taking but larger skills and standards that we have as a school. This helps students to be successful not only in their chosen educational and career goals but also as human beings.
Participating in this program has given me more insight into how to incorporate soft skills and presentation skills into projects to make them even more realistic, engaging, and meaningful for students.
Students need to be able to work well with others, be flexible and innovative with their thinking, and have a great work ethic. These are things that I knew were important, but were reinforced by the employers I heard from in the externship program. I have now integrated these skills at the forefront of what I ask students to do. Making space for building these habits into classroom experiences can make the difference for students in getting and keeping a job.
Hearing from guest speakers that are doing the job is convincing to students.
Participating in an internship in which they can actually see and do the work required is life-changing for these students, as they develop the thinking, habits, and collaboration skills they need to be successful employees in their future.
By working with local leaders and industry professionals, we are creating a better support system for students! I’m grateful to have been able to get direct insight from local business leaders so I can truly better prepare my students to be successful in their future educational and career goals.
– Shoshanna Kroeger, NBCT Biology and Chemistry Teacher, Phoenix Coding Academy, Phoenix Union High School District