Kentucky high school students pondering education as a career choice received hands-on experience in the field at the Future Educators of America (FEA) summer camp. The camp was held for the first time ever at the University of Kentucky from Monday, June 14 through Friday, June 18. The College of Education hosted the camp, which introduced students to the world of professional education.

In response to the growing need for more teachers throughout the state, the Kentucky Department of Education’s Division of Educator Recruitment and Retention approved a grant to fund a camp at UK this summer. It is a means to show young people the rewards and gratifications that go along with a professional career in education, said Rose Boulay, FEA camp director and the coordinator of minority recruitment and retention in the College of Education.

Over five days, students tasted UK campus life and enjoyed several social events in Lexington. But presentations from College of Education faculty members and graduate students were the camp’s primary focus.

“The sessions were fun, hands-on experiences for the students. Activities included mock teaching classes, an introduction to educational technology, and practical advice about earning teacher certification. Students came away understanding the challenges educators face on a daily basis as well as with insight into the teacher’s craft. The camp also provided information about making their college education affordable,” said Boulay.

The program was not solely dedicated to class time. In addition to the regular program, students toured several Kentucky historic landmarks such as Ashland and Mary Todd Lincoln’s home.

Patti Rowland, 2004 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, was a keynote speaker at the closing awards banquet on Thursday evening at the Boone Center. Ms. Rowland is a teacher from Hogsett Elementary School in Danville.

Send news information to Josh Shepherd - Last updated by the webmaster@coe.uky.edu July 2, 2004 13:36