Joyce Wagner
In Motion Staff Writer
Teaching is a demanding, yet rewarding career. The ability to impart knowledge to students in a way that they will receive it and retain it, is vital.
When asked to recall a memorable school experience, many people focus on a favorite teacher. The teacher may have helped them through a tough time, or perhaps took extra time to explain a difficult concept, or possibly inspired them to fulfill their dreams.
Becoming a teacher in order to reach and teach others takes dedication and hard work. Daytona State College offers seven Bachelor of Science in Education (BSED) degrees.
Aaron Conner earned his BSED, Dec. 2012, in Elementary Education. A 5th grade teacher at Westside Elementary School in Daytona Beach, Conner said, “The reason why I chose to become a teacher, it was my way of trying to give back. You have to love it, to deal with some of the things you have to deal with. I never knew, being on the other side, how much stress it is to be a teacher. But the dedication that comes from it, the rewards that come from it, is unmeasurable. I help them with their homework, I help them with whatever other issues they may be having, because I just want hem to know that they do have someone in their corner. The kids, they make everything worth it.
Part of the coursework a student completes for a Bachelor of Science in Education is the required internship. Hands-on experience enhances the classroom instruction in the different fields of education. Students also are taught how to teach specific subjects to their own students.
Creekside middle School, Port Orange is where Shannon McIntyre became a 7th grade science teacher. She completed her BSED in Secondary Biology Education, in Dec. 2012. Wanting to be a teacher from a young age, McIntyre asks herself every morning, “How am I going to present the material to my students today, to make sure they are engaged and liking what they are doing while learning? I also try to apply everything I teach them to their real life, because that’s when real learning begins, when they can attach what they already know to what they’re trying to learn. It’s an amazing job, it’s so rewarding.
A common thread resonates from the new teachers. Their desire to help their students learn and succeed is a priority and a personal reward.
Graduating spring 2013 with a BSED in Secondary Math Education, Michael Francis went on to teach mathematics at Mainland High School, where he had done his internship. “I love teaching because I’m able to give back,” said Francis. “I enjoy being there knowing I can influence and be a difference in a student’s life. I love my job. I love coming to work every single day.”
Other areas of specialization within the BSED include, Exceptional Student Education, Secondary Earth/Space Education, Secondary Chemistry Education and Secondary Physics Education.