It's a Rap

Meet Lexi, a high school and college graduate, and a working mom. She began her career in education as a teacher aide in Hoosick Falls, NY, where she quickly discovered a deep passion for working with students and a natural talent for supporting their learning. Despite how much she loved the role, Lexi knew that an aide’s salary wouldn’t be enough to support herself and her young son.

Already holding a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, Lexi realized that access to a future career as a teacher by returning to a traditional teacher preparation program, with its unpaid student teaching component was not feasible. There had to be another way. The Classroom Academy’s two-year Apprenticeship Program offered her a vital alternative, enabling her to earn a steady income while gaining the practical experience and credentials necessary to become a certified teacher. It would also provide some relief with tuition assistance. This balance of work and study allowed her to pursue her goal of teaching without starting over financially or professionally.

At first, Lexi felt most comfortable in special education classrooms, where she had the most experience from her position as a teacher aide. Transitioning to a first grade classroom brought new unknowns, yet  strong support and daily, hands-on experience and guidance helped her develop the tools and confidence needed to expand her teaching practice. As Lexi explains,

“I wasn’t sure I could teach in a general education setting at first, but with the right support and experience, I’ve learned that I’m capable of meeting the needs of all my students.”

Lexi also acknowledged that the year came with its share of challenges. A change in school leadership and the temporary absence of key staff members due to maternity leave created significant shifts within the school community. However, she and her lead teacher were able to lean on each other and navigate these transitions together. These types of collaborative responses to common realities which educators face every year, are often missed in short-term traditional student teaching placements. Additionally, Lexi’s lead teacher was able to draw on Lexi’s special education experience, enriching both the classroom environment and student learning.

Now entering her second year in the program, Lexi reflects on how impactful the first year has been building her skills, confidence, and teaching identity. One of the unique benefits of the program, which Lexi sees as a powerful part of her growth, is the opportunity to work with a new group of students this coming school year. Each class brings its own personality, learning needs, and challenges, requiring her to adapt and approach her teaching with fresh strategies and an open mind. The variety has helped her better understand the realities of the classroom and what it means to be a responsive, reflective educator.

“The classroom experience has given me so much to learn and  things I’ll carry with me for years to come. Last year was so different from this year; the needs are higher now. Being able to experience that shift across two years is incredibly valuable.”

With one successful year behind her and a new class ahead, Lexi is continuing to grow into her role as a dual-certified teacher, ready to serve diverse learners across the school community.