Students Get School Credit and Job Training
Finding the key to unlock a student’s maximum potential is a major focal point at Barnstable Academy, an alternative college prep-level middle school and high school in Oakland, New Jersey.One of the programs offered by Barnstable is a unique way to get hands-on experience with a specific career path or college area of study in early childhood education. Since 2006, Barnstable has worked hand-in-hand with Kids Interactive Day School (KIDS), which offers infant/toddler care, preschool and kindergarten. Barnstable high school students may participate in an internship program at KIDS to help them learn more about the field and shed light on a possible path of future study.
In addition to receiving class credit for the internship, students gain tangible work and life experience, starting with the interview process necessary before interacting with youngsters on a personal level. According to KIDS Director Raashmi Bakshi, the Barnstable students who are interested in the program go through a very selective interview process and gain tremendous insight from partaking in this mutually beneficial opportunity.
The benefits are shared between the Barnstable students and the children. The students gain life experience under the guidance of KIDS’ seasoned, state-certified early childhood teachers, while the preschoolers and kindergarteners enjoy having a “big brother” or “big sister” instructor in the classroom.
Bakshi has nothing but good things to say about the Barnstable participants and credits the program with helping build good character and putting students ahead of the game when opting to pursue a career in child development or education.
“Some teachers waste time and energy by coming into this setting without previous experience, only to find out that it isn’t for them. The Barnstable students can find out if they are interested without going through the lengthy process,” Bakshi said.
The program is also a great resume builder for students, as Bakshi says that she holds preferred employment for Barnstable students because of their level of experience.
“It takes a special person and practical experience to succeed in this field—experience obtained through this program,” she noted.
“This internship program exemplifies the unique opportunities Barnstable Academy provides for its students, creating an arena that not only educates but also fosters a nurturing atmosphere to enable future success,” said Head of School Lizanne Coyne. “Many of these students do go on to careers in early childhood education and we’re proud to provide such a strong foundation for their futures,” she added.
