{"id":2164,"date":"2023-03-28T10:50:22","date_gmt":"2023-03-28T14:50:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/?p=2164"},"modified":"2023-04-05T11:37:20","modified_gmt":"2023-04-05T15:37:20","slug":"middle-grade-classroom-teaching-certification","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/middle-grade-classroom-teaching-certification\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet Me in the Middle!"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Dr. Kathleen Wallace<\/p>\n

Did you know that 911爆料网 is the only university in Connecticut that currently offers certification for teaching in middle-grade classrooms? Now, more than ever, we need teachers with the knowledge and experience to meet the needs of learners during this unique and ever-changing time in their lives — a time of rapid developmental, academic, and personal growth. As these young people transition from their childhood into their adolescent years, they need teachers who are caring and patient; individuals who are equipped with content knowledge, the ability to communicate effectively, and a unique sense of humor.<\/p>\n

What makes the middle-grades the right choice for teachers?<\/p>\n

You Get to Connect with Young People During a Special Time in Their Lives.<\/h2>\n

The middle is more fun! Students from ages 11 to 15 are undergoing tremendous changes in their lives. They are developing rapidly, navigating the rocky waters between their childhood and young adult worlds. This time for children can seem like a study in contrasts — they constantly move back and forth between childlike behaviors and more mature behaviors. The result is nothing short of amazing and often downright hilarious. As a middle-grades teacher, you\u2019ll be surprised at how many times a day your students make you laugh.<\/p>\n

As a middle-grades teacher, you\u2019ll have the ability to foster their confidence and watch them gain skills right before your eyes. Students at this stage in development are concerned with fitting in, standing out, and finding their niche — their confidence can be shaky, but you\u2019ll be there as a support person to cheer them up and cheer them on!<\/p>\n

As funny as middle-graders can be, they can also be deeply sensitive and emotional. They\u2019re curious about taking risks and becoming more adventurous, but they\u2019re also easily hurt and worried about what others think of them. Connecting with students at this stage in their development can leave a lasting impression on their lives, and can lead to a rewarding career in education. These students will remember your sage advice and unwavering support for the rest of their lives.<\/p>\n

If fostering curiosity and supporting students as they continue to grow into themselves sounds appealing to you, then middle-grades is the place to be as a teacher. You can be their safety net as they learn how to become more independent, and their booster as they navigate life\u2019s new challenges.<\/p>\n

You\u2019re There to Address the Unique Needs of the Middle-Level Learner.<\/h2>\n

The team-teaching model and the coursework offered in middle school are carefully considered to address these unique learners.<\/p>\n