Teaching Is A 'Way Of Life,' For Philadelphia President Of At-Risk Youth Academy
Early in 2008, Mayor Nutter set a target for the Philadelphia school system to have an 80 percent graduation rate by 2014, according to The Notebook. The Liguori Academy seeks to empower students who are critically at-risk academically, and keep them from dropping out of high school. The Liguori Academy goes beyond basic academics and partners with universities and local companies for alternative academic experiences and certification programs.
President of The Liguori Academy, Michael V. Marrone offers advice to students pursuing a career as an educator.
What is the most challenging aspect of teaching in the classroom environment?
"The most challenging aspect of teaching is the environment in which so many of our students come from. They receive so many mixed messages from their peers and other people in society that lead them to believe there is an easier way out. Students need to be loved. They need to know that they are unconditionally accepted by their teacher. Their belief system needs to be challenged, and they need to realize that they can do it!"
Do you have any advice for people wanting to enter into the teaching profession?
"My advice for young people entering into education is just be yourself! Come to the classroom with enthusiasm; and most importantly, do what you know you need to do and what is best for the children. Teaching is not a job, it is a way of life."
Are continuing education courses beneficial for teachers?
"Continuing education courses or credits are a necessity for any good teacher. They give us the opportunity to always be on top of issues involving our children and their families. They guide us in the right direction as to what is best for our students."
Do you feel a master's degree would be helpful in an educator's day-to-day career?
"I think a teacher should receive a Master's of Education after five years of teaching in the field first. This will then give the teacher an opportunity to be brought up-to-date on technology, development and methods that will enhance their ability to best serve their students."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.