Several John C. Birdlebough High School students took a step back in time so they could explore a career that involves working with children by visiting their elementary classrooms.
The high schoolers assisted Michael A. Maroun Elementary teachers with lessons, interacted with students and gained unforgettable hands-on experience as part of the annual “Back to the Future” (BTTF) event. Elementary and High School Guidance Counselor Nora Germain said BTTF often serves as the high schoolers’ first tangible exposure of working with children in a formal setting.
The older students remained actively engaged in the elementary learning environment throughout the day. Alexa Hoag, 10th grader, began her day in Desiree Moore’s third-grade classroom by getting to know students as they finished their breakfast and practiced math skills. Hoag said she enjoys spending time with children and is considering a career in nursing. Down the hallway, repeat BTTF Participant and JCB Senior Tyler Gabriele assisted Second-Grade Teacher Joelle Hendry by using a SMART Board to record student answers to be used for a synopsis for parents of what the class accomplished throughout the week. Gabriele said he too enjoys working with children and he has a passion for computer science.
Both JCB Senior Chris Nicolella and JCB Sophomore Catherine Musumeci said they may consider careers in the field of education. They spent time in Lucille Mercer’s kindergarten class helping students with a number bingo game and rhyming activities.
The BTTF program also gave an opportunity for elementary students to learn about high school.
Other JCB students participating in the “Back to the Future” event included: Bryon Halstead, Josh Margrey, Emma Brown, Lawrence Karl, Jessica Jones, Evan Logee, Lauren Schmidt, Sarah Hoag, Corinne Januska, Brad Dietz, Ashley Margrey, Zoey Heckert and Wendy Li.
Michael A. Maroun Elementary Kindergarteners Emily Petrella, left, and Lana Thompson, right, enjoy
spending time with John C. Birdlebough Sophomore Catherine Musumeci during a number bingo game.
The annual Back to the Future event provided high schoolers first-hand experience working with children.