California Baptist University

The Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education has a ultimate goal is “to teach graduates how to create self-sufficient, lifelong learners who master content, critically analyze what they learn, collaborate well with others, create innovative solutions and communicate effectively,” according to their mission statement. A prominent feature in the program is the mandatory semester of student teaching that every teacher-hopeful must undertake. Danielle Lutjens, senior liberal studies major and Angelos photo editor, explains her experience in student teaching as a method of preparing her career and future.

Teachin g as a Student

What is Student Teaching?

and district curriculum, attend Individualized Education Plan, 504, staff and leadership meetings every week, and integrate student support for differentiated learning since there are students who learn at different paces in every class. Teachers and student teachers also do a multitude of other things including behavioral support and contacting parents, administrators and others to get them all on the same page.

Student teaching is the final semester of the credentialing program that allows future teachers to graduate with experience and their certification so they can start teaching right away. It consists of credential candidates going in (or teaching virtually) for one whole semester at either an elementary school or a specific subject depending on the credential you are trying to earn.

How did you get into Student teaching?

What do you teach?

I have always had a passion for working with kids and love helping them reach the “Ah-ha” moments of learning.

I teach elementary, which is language arts (reading, writing, spelling, and grammar), math, science, so cial studies, art and PE.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?

How is this experience preparing you for your future?

Yes, all of the courses in my undergrad as well as my courses in my credentialing program have all been in preparation by providing us with fieldwork, different teaching methods, and teaching theories among other things.

It prepares you by giving you experience in the classroom while pairing you up with a mentor teacher, supervisor, and group of students who are also student teaching so that you can garner support and wisdom from this cohort.

What are some things or people you work with during your student teaching?

Teachers and student teachers prepare lesson plans each day that align with the state standards

WORDS Anyssa Gonzalez

PHOTO Danielle Lutjens

DESIGN Elijah Martinez

139 Student Teachers