The Teacher Academy pathway prepares students for careers in education by developing the knowledge, skills, and leadership needed to work with learners of all ages. Through classroom instruction and field experiences, students explore teaching methods, child development, and educational careers while gaining hands-on experience in real classroom settings.
Teacher Academy I: Introduction to Education & Human Growth (Level 1) Students are introduced to the teaching profession while exploring child and adolescent development, learning theories, classroom environments, and educational careers. The course includes observations and foundational field experiences.
Teacher Academy II: K–12 Education as a Profession (Level 2)
Students build on their understanding of education by exploring instructional strategies, lesson planning, classroom management, and the role of teachers in today's schools. Field experiences provide opportunities to apply teaching skills in authentic classroom settings.
Teacher Academy III: Exceptional Children (Level 3)
Students examine the characteristics and educational needs of exceptional learners while developing inclusive teaching strategies and instructional practices. The course emphasizes hands-on field experiences, collaboration, and career readiness for future educators.
Work-Based Learning (Level 4)
Students participate in real-world learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to careers in teaching, school counseling, educational leadership, early childhood education, and student support services. Through classroom observations, job shadowing, mentorships, educator guest speakers, career preparation activities, and an internship or teaching practicum, students gain firsthand experience supporting learners, assisting with lessons, and working in authentic educational settings. Work-based learning helps students strengthen communication, leadership, collaboration, professionalism, and classroom management skills while preparing for Praxis and ParaPro assessments, postsecondary education, and future careers in education.
Educators Rising (EdRising)
Educators Rising is a national Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) that prepares students for leadership and careers in education. Through leadership opportunities, community service, hands-on classroom experiences, professional development, and education-related competitive events, students build communication, collaboration, instructional, and career-ready skills while connecting classroom learning to real-world educational settings. Students may participate in state and national conferences and competitions while developing the knowledge, confidence, and experience needed for future success in college and careers as teachers and educational leaders. Explore more on the Delaware Educators Rising website and the National Educators Rising website.
