NEW: Academy of Teaching
The courses in our teaching academy are designed to prepare college or career bound students for a variety of careers in the education field: early childhood, elementary or a career that involved working with children. The content includes but is not limited to competencies and skills needed to become a professional in the field of education. This includes an understanding of education in the United States, the ability to work effectively with all students, educational technology, classroom management, student assessment, communication skills, and other skills needed to support the learning activities of students. The Academy begins with Early Childhood Education I where students go through coursework from the Florida Department of Children and Families. Upon completion of the modules, students may test to become state certified child care workers. In Early Childhood II-IV students operate all aspects of our on-site preschool: “Little Wave”. The lab program provides hands-on work with teaching lessons to children, writing and implementing lesson plans, demonstrating professionalism, and teaching practice. Moreover, Little Wave is F-U-N!! At program completion, students will earn a minimum of 250 child contact hours and will be eligible to obtain their National Child Development Associate (an additional Industry Certification). This elective can be taken all 4 years, if desired.
In addition, the School District of Lee County will award contingency contracts to students who participate in the Teaching Academy and plan to major in education.
Course Sequence:
Early Childhood Education I modules include: Child Abuse and Neglect, Behavior Observation and Screening, Child Growth and Development, Florida Law related to Childcare, and Understanding Developmentally Appropriate Practice
Early Childhood Education II-IV (DCF certification required) Lab experience taking place in the “Little Wave” preschool.
Affiliated Clubs: Future Educators of America (FEA), National Career and Technical Honor Society
About Little Wave
The “Little Wave” program has been in existence since the early 1970’s at Fort Myers High School. This early childhood learning lab is a unique program planned to benefit both the preschool child and the high school student. Many students enrolled in this Career and Technical program have aspirations to work with children upon graduation. Students in Early Childhood I learn child development theory and go through a strenuous curriculum provided by the Florida Department of Children and Families. Students in Early Childhood II-IV spend their time operating the preschool implementing lessons and promoting children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. Under careful direction and supervision by Ms. Hollan, a National Board Certified teacher, high-schoolers teach a wide variety of activities within a carefully planned educational program based on National Association of Early Childhood Education best practices.
Please fill out the application to below to enroll your child and email it to [email protected] or return it to the school. Applicants must be age 3-5 and be completely potty trained. Preference is given to FMHS alumni or School District of Lee County employees.
Please contact Andrea Hollan at 334-2167 ext. 3131 for more information.