Educators Rising Attend Ed Rising Day at USD
Plainview Educators Rising Members recently gained valuable insights into education careers during the University of South Dakota's EdRising Day, a comprehensive event designed to introduce aspiring educators to the teaching profession. Members Landon Hergert, Ashlyn Forbes, Lucea Miller, and Josie Choat participated in the full-day experience under the guidance of their Teacher Leader, Ronita Jacobsen.
The event, held on the USD campus, provided the 185 students from the 12 school districts with multiple opportunities to explore different aspects of education through hands-on sessions and presentations.
"The day began with registration and breakfast, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all participants," said Jacobsen. "Our students were able to engage with current educators and learn about the diverse pathways available in education." The chapter was warmly welcomed by Melissa Griese-USD Academic Recruiter and Dr. Amy Schweinle, Dean of the USD School of Education.
Students attended a keynote presentation by Abbie Wiebers, a two-time USD School of Education graduate, who shared her journey from teaching to School Psychology. She was graduate of Beresford High School and currently is a School Psychologist in the Sioux Falls area. She stressed the importance of the connections you make and meeting new people and students should take advantage of opportunities and adventures.
The morning session then featured breakout sessions covering educational technology, teaching methodologies, and career exploration students could choose from: Special Education: How to customize teaching for a fun interactive classroom environment; Student Teaching: Current student teachers shared highlights, challenges, and answered questions about K-12 experiences; Educators Rising in College: Experience the collegiate level of Ed Rising competition and program; Tech Session: Learned how robots can engage students-Worked collaboratively to code a Sphero Indi Robot and considered how robotics could be used in the classroom; Teacher Travel: Explored faculty led teaching and education abroad programs in Germany and Finland; Careers in Education: Discovered the surprising careers available to education from classroom teaching to leadership, training, nonprofit work, and more; Physical Education: Explored practical ways to bring movement into the classroom and academic concepts into PE for active meaningful learning.
Special Advising Sessions were held for students to learn more about earning their classroom degrees. Students were able to select from one of the following: Elementary/Special Education: to learn how to make a difference in the lives of K-8 learners; Secondary Education: turn your passion for a subject into a career; Art and Music Education: turn your passion for art or music into a career inspiring creativity; and USD Admission: discover the endless opportunities outside of education awaiting you.
“One of my favorite sessions was the Special Education one. I really enjoyed seeing all the different tools they had available to help students learn.” stated Josie Choat. Landon Hergert stated, “I enjoyed the music sessions the most and learning about travel abroad.”
The day concluded with campus tours, lunch with USD student ambassadors, and a unique podcast recording session where participants shared their experiences and career aspirations.
Members returned to Plainview with renewed enthusiasm for potential education careers and a clearer understanding of available pathways.
"This experience provided our students with real-world insights into the world of education.” Jacobsen noted. "They came back energized and more informed about their future possibilities."
The Educators Rising chapter at Plainview High School continues to provide students with opportunities to explore education careers and develop leadership skills that will benefit them regardless of their chosen profession.
Educators Rising is a national program that introduces high school students to teaching careers through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. The Plainview chapter is one of many across the state working to address teacher shortages by inspiring the next generation of educators.