‘Externships’ Help Teachers Stay Up to Date
Published Apr 15, 2008
Even the most inspiring teachers have probably heard their students groan: “When are we ever gonna use this stuff?” But thanks to the Tech Valley Teacher Externship program, some middle and high school teachers are able to bring up-to-date answers to that dreaded question.
The program offers teachers the opportunity to gain work experience at area technology companies during the summer. Teachers use the knowledge they gain to inform their teaching and to encourage students to pursue careers in math, science and technology-related fields.
The Tech Valley Chamber Coalition established the Teacher Externship program through partnerships with local businesses. Teachers work 40 hours per week for six to eight weeks with companies in fields such as high-tech manufacturing, research and development, and communications. Teachers are compensated and also may receive professional credit.
“If we can’t educate the future workforce, then we won’t be successful,” Tech Valley Chamber Coalition chair, Lyn Taylor says. “We need teachers to inspire their students to further their education. Through the Teacher Externship program, teachers gain practical knowledge to take back into the classroom, giving their students a snapshot of the real world.”
The program has grown every year since it began in 2005, when nine teachers participated. In 2007, 27 teachers were placed with companies. The Chamber Coalition was able to expand the program thanks in part to a grant from the New York State Senate.
Story by Denise Mitchell
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