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By Grace Hauser

Sudent Intern

School is out, but students are still learning.

The Read to Achieve camp was held at Mocksville Elementary for second and third graders.

While the younger kids learned reading and science, six Davie High student interns and one college intern were learning how to teach. They provided instruction and support in art and science classes, read with kids in small groups, and created instructional materials.

Three interns – April Collins, Amber Lynde, and Ava Gary – shared their experiences.

Ava has always known she wanted to be a teacher as both of her parents work in education. She said that her teachers have made a significant impact on her, and she “wants to make a difference like that for other students.”

April chose teaching because she, too, was influenced by teachers in her life.

Echoing this sentiment, Amber was grateful for her amazing elementary teachers who “really inspired her to be a great teacher.”

The interns enjoyed meeting and interacting with the kids. They made fond memories as they built science projects and made crafts.

Building relationships with students contributes to success in and beyond the classroom, Amber said, explaining that she valued the moments between classes or in the hall where the kids would ask to play a quick game of Simon Says.

Internships can equip students with important skills including leadership, patience, and unconditional support. April noted the importance of “loving the kids through their hard times,” such as when they’re acting out or misbehaving. A

mber gained insight into “navigating students that may need extra help.”

Ava said that she appreciated experiencing “the good things and the unexpected things” that may appear in her classroom.

All three plan to pursue a degree in elementary education.

Who inspired them to choose teaching? It was hard to pick just one teacher.

April would like to shout-out Dana Parker, her fifth grade teacher at Mocksville Elementary, for being understanding and always willing to talk.

Another fifth grade teacher at Mocksville Elementary, Mrs. Dotson, was unforgettable to Ava. “You could tell she’s passionate about every one of her kids.”

Amber remembered Mrs. Lowery, a sixth grade math teacher at North Davie. “She was a great coach who helped me understand math” and made sure her students “were able to succeed.”

When asked if they recommend other students do internships like this, the answer was a resounding “yes”

Ava remarked: “I just feel so much more prepared.”

They pointed out that it’s good experience for college or job applications, and it gives you a chance to try something and learn if it’s for you or not. Ultimately, internships provide valuable skills and insight towards careers, they said.