Student Teaching Program Spotlight

Meet Alex Reynolds

At Options Schools, we are dedicated to nurturing aspiring educators and providing them with transformative experiences through our new student teaching program. In this article, you will meet Alex Reynolds, a driven student from Marian University, who is the pioneer participant in this initiative. Alex’s journey exemplifies our commitment to supporting students’ growth and development in the field of education.

To discover more about the student teaching program at Options Schools and learn how university students in Indiana can engage with our mission, we invite you to reach out to us today. Your support is crucial in shaping the future of education for our students.

Significance of Student Teaching

For college students studying education, student teaching serves as a crucial milestone on their journey to becoming educators. Fulfilling graduation requirements through hands-on classroom experience not only benefits the students but also enriches the educational landscape of our schools. At Options Schools, we believe in the power of mentorship and practical learning experiences to shape the next generation of teachers which is why we decided to introduce this program into our schools.

Matching With Options Schools

Before joining the Options Schools team in August 2024, Alex underwent extensive training and classroom rotations to prepare for her student teaching experience. Her background in education, her relationship with her brother who also has elevated needs, and her desire to make a difference in students’ lives all aided in her decision to apply to be a student teacher at Options. Through a thoughtful selection process, Alex found her place in our community and embarked on a path of growth and discovery.

Applying to Student Teach

Enrolled in a comprehensive five-year program at Marian University, Alex discovered the student teaching opportunity and felt drawn to Options Schools after a round table discussion with various school districts. Impressed by our school’s ethos, she eagerly embraced the chance to contribute to its educational mission.

Match Day

During the selection process, Alex chose Options Schools as her top preference and was delighted to secure a placement here. Despite initial nerves, she viewed this experience as a gateway to her future career as an educator.

Mentorship & Teaching Experience

Finding the Right Mentor

Mentorship plays a pivotal role in shaping student teachers’ experiences. According to a study from ScienceDirect on mentoring relationships during student teaching, the relationship between a mentor and a student teacher is a foundational element in any mentoring arrangement, and when mentor teachers and student teachers engage with one another productively, a positive relationship is often described as one of the explanatory variables for a successful experience. 

Alex, specializing in math education, is paired with Carolyn Sinnott, our Middle School Math Specialist and last year’s winner of the Teacher of the Year award. Carolyn’s expertise and guidance have been invaluable to Alex as she navigates the challenges and rewards of teaching in a dynamic classroom environment.

A Typical Day

Her daily routine at Options Schools involves collaborating with Carolyn to support students in the morning while Carolyn teaches lessons and taking the lead on teaching activities in the afternoon. This structured approach has enabled her to develop confidence and proficiency in her role.

Reflecting on the Student Teaching Experience So Far

Alex’s time at Options Schools has been marked by positivity and growth. Her interactions with staff, students, and the community have reinforced her passion for teaching and highlighted the nurturing environment that defines our institution.

Alex shares, “Honestly, I love it here!” Her enthusiasm and dedication to our student’s success embody the spirit of Options Schools and inspire us to continue providing exceptional educational opportunities.

Learning and Growth Through Student Teaching

Through her experience at Options Schools, Alex aims to develop essential teaching skills and cultivate empathy for students with diverse needs. Her future goal of working as an educator with juvenile detention facilities reflects her commitment to serving marginalized populations and making a meaningful impact in the field of education.

Alex’s personal connection to students with elevated needs, inspired by her brother’s experiences, underscores the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students. Karen Oliver, Chief Academic Officer for Options Schools, states, “We are thrilled to have a resident join us from Marian University. The collaboration and the process of ‘inspect what you expect’ is an experience for the resident and veteran teachers. Alex also has an energy that is contagious to all who are around her.”

Fostering Future Educators at Options Schools

The student teaching program at Options Schools not only serves as a platform for aspiring educators like Alex to gain practical experience but also benefits the school community by fostering a culture of learning and mentorship. The program’s holistic approach to education ensures that both students and teachers thrive in a supportive environment.

For more information on the student teaching program at Options Schools or to explore opportunities for university students in Indiana to engage with our initiative, feel free to contact us today!