Preschool in High School

02/09/2011

The belief that all genuine education comes about through experience does not mean that all experiences are genuinely or equally educative.
John Dewey, 1859-1952, American Psychologist

The Sun Sentinel (January 9, 2011) recently reported on preschools operated in high schools in Palm Beach County, Florida.

"While preschool at high school may sound unusual, the concept has taken off across the Palm Beach County School District. This year, 12 of the 23 traditional high schools have some form of a program that prepares students for careers in child-related occupations. Nearly 2,100 9th through 12th-graders are enrolled in these classes, according to the district.

"Through these teaching models, high school students can earn an Early Childhood Professional Certificate, from the Florida Department of Education, by the time they graduate. That requires 120 hours of classroom instruction, 480 hours of direct work with young children, and passing exams from the state Department of Children & Families.

"'They can be a lead teacher at a preschool right out of high school,' said Tracey Kouf, Santaluces High School teacher academy instructor, adding that many graduates go on to work in preschools while pursuing higher education.

"Educators think a greater emphasis on these academies will lead to more college graduates entering the teaching profession, as well as providing qualified workers for local day-care centers that may deal with high turnover and regular vacancies."

Thanks to Zvia Dover for sharing this "good news."

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