The Origins of and Growth of Education Professions

The Education Professions program began as a small initiative to give students a glimpse into the world of teaching and has grown into a full classroom and FCCLA organization. 

According to the Ed Professions teacher and the program’s sponsor Kevin VanNatter stated, ”Ed Professions became part of FCCLA three years ago after the state decided they would no longer support Ed Rising.”

 However, Education Professions has grown into one of the most meaningful classes for students interested in education and leadership. VanNatter explained that the Program allows students to explore what it means to be an educator, from lesson planning to classroom management.

 When asked what inspired him to teach the program, he jokingly admitted, “The additional money that I get paid to teach it.”  Beyond humor, he emphasized the importance of adapting as a teacher, saying one of the most crucial skills for today’s educators is “ The ability to reflect and adjust during a class period based on what is working and what isn’t.” 

VanNatter also shared, “I’ve learned that some of the most rewarding parts of teaching take place outside of the classroom.”  Highlighting how the program encourages students to see teaching as more than just lectures or lessons. 

Inside the classroom, students are encouraged to grow as both learners and future educations. Miguel Arce III, a second-year student and president of the Education Professions club, said, “I joined Ed Professions for a second year because in the first year, I made a lot of memories and wanted to continue that for another year”.

 He enjoys lesson planning, especially as it relates to his upcoming FCCLA competition, and noted, “My responsibilities as a student and as president go hand-in-hand. My role as president takes up much of my time, and being a student in the class doesn’t really get in the way of that”. 

First-year student James Luu shared his own motivations, saying, “My desire for being educated on moral values, and child development.” inspired him to join the program. He is particularly interested in learning about students with learning disabilities, explaining, “It’s important that everyone is represented in their education.”