Teachers have a variety of ways to further their education and become even better educators. Throughout their years of teaching, they gain a better understanding of what students need and how they can teach content in more effective ways. Teachers are compensated for this increased knowledge and experience based on their years of service. However, there are several other ways teachers can gain new knowledge and be compensated for it. In Benton Middle School and High School, several teachers are currently taking courses to earn endorsements or masters degrees to help them become even better educators.
There are many types of endorsements and masters degrees that can be earned. In addition, teachers can earn these degrees from various institutions. Heather Mayrose is earning her endorsement in English as a Second Language (ESL) through Morningside University. When asked why she pursued this specific endorsement Heather replied, “I decided to pursue my endorsement to teach ESL after teaching overseas and realizing I did not have sufficient knowledge of how to teach culturally and linguistically diverse students. I think these students have so much to offer schools in Iowa, and I wanted to be better prepared to teach them.” Heather, along with several other teachers, recognize areas of improvement and work hard to make sure every student is understood and accepted.
Some educators are ready for the next step in their professional careers and seek degrees that open doors to different positions in education. Jeff Zittergruen is currently working to earn a Masters in Education Leadership with a Principal endorsement. He is taking his classes through Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. Larry Carlson is seeking a Masters in Administration through Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa. Anna Selk is earning a Doctor of Education in Leadership degree with Superintendent Licensure through Drake University. Anna, along with other teachers, are encouraged by their family members to pursue both their academic and professional goals. Without their support, it would be a much more difficult journey.
The task of earning additional degrees is definitely not an easy one as the teachers listed above will tell you. However, it is a challenge Benton educators are willing to tackle in order to enhance their knowledge, meet the needs of their students, and be the best Bobcats that they can be. This hard work is very much appreciated! Keep going strong Bobcats!