School of Education marks milestones, changes

Now with just over 600 alumni, Georgia Gwinnett College’s School of Education (SOE) is a significant source of new teachers for Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) and other local school systems.

As SOE continues its growth, it has introduced some changes and celebrated milestones.

First induction ceremony

This spring, dozens of friends and family members gathered in the Student Center to watch SOE’s graduating seniors take part in the school’s inaugural induction ceremony.

A tradition within the education field, such ceremonies celebrate students’ achievements in becoming educators and recognizes their commitment to their chosen profession. These ceremonies share similar elements but each is unique to its institution.

GGC’s ceremony was highlighted by its seniors’ recognition of their GCPS cooperating teachers, who had been invited to the event. Each received a certificate and appreciative hug from their student teacher for their support and mentorship.

“Our students and the college owe a lot to the investment of time and energy cooperating teachers provide during the student teaching experience,” said Dr. Cathy Moore, dean of SOE. “It meant a great deal to our students to personally express their gratitude to these first, important, professional role models. This is a relationship they will never forget.”

The ceremony also included presentations of three special awards for outstanding students Makayla Crafton, Paul Hedges and Logan Segars.

Georgia’s 2016-17 State Teacher of the Year, Casey Bethel of New Manchester High School in Douglasville, gave a dynamic keynote address and Debbie King, a GCPS math coach, reflected on the role of a life-long educator. Remarks were provided by Dr. T.J. Arant, senior vice president for Academic and Student Affairs and provost.

Graduating seniors received the gift of a commemorative journal. The event ended with a reception.

“This first induction ceremony established a meaningful tradition for generations of education students to come,” said Moore.

Symbolizing the partnership in producing new teachers, the processional of the recent induction ceremony included GGC students, faculty and administrators as well as cooperating teachers. Cody Bates, ’17, early childhood education, and Dr. Katharine Page, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, decided to lead the procession holding hands.

Recognition of teacher certifications

For the first time, students receiving teacher certifications with their bachelor’s degrees from other GGC schools were formally recognized at spring commencement. The college offers teaching certification for majors in biology, chemistry, English, history, mathematics and political science.

“We felt that these students should be noted for the extra work they devoted to obtaining their teacher certifications in addition to their degree requirements,” said Moore.

These students also participated in the SOE induction ceremony.

Reggie Hairston, ’17, special education, visits with Dr. Michael Blake, a part-time special education faculty member, and Randal Taylor, ’17, special education. Hairston and Taylor are two of GGC’s first paraprofessional graduates.

First paraprofessional graduates

This spring, SOE also graduated its first four paraprofessional students through a unique program developed in cooperation with GCPS.

Many paraprofessionals have two-year degrees. The GGC/ GCPS program enables these individuals to complete their bachelor’s degrees while continuing to work full-time. They are also able to apply their professional work experience toward the degree requirements for either early childhood education or special education.

“This program provides paraprofessionals with a convenient and time-effective way to complete their education,” said Moore.

Early childhood education major Esmeralda Trevino, ’17, pauses for a photo with Penny Clavijo, principal of Rock Springs Elementary School, where Trevino has been hired as a teacher.

Program changes

Starting with the 2017-2018 academic year, the SOE will implement a year-long student teaching experience that will include both fall and spring semesters, and will graduate its students at the spring commencement ceremonies.

“Spending the complete, full academic year with the same teacher will provide our students with the opportunity to experience all facets of teaching for the year,” said Moore. “Our students will gain first-hand experience with preparing the classroom for new students in August, and they will work with their cooperating teachers on developing lessons throughout the academic year.”

The induction ceremony will be held each spring the week before commencement.