Fostering Future Educators through the College for Kids and Teens Program

The College for Kids and Teens (CFKT) program at MSUM has become a vital platform for nurturing future educators. The program brings hundreds of area students to MSUM's campus for summer learning programs. These students range from elementary to high school ages.

Led by Sean Brandenburg, youth outreach coordinator, the CFKT program offers a unique opportunity for current education students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

The CFKT program began a collaboration with the School of Teaching and Learning (STL) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sean reached out to Julia Poplin, a faculty member at the School of Teaching and Learning, seeking instructors for the summer program.

"Sean asked if any of my students would be interested in some summer teaching," Julia recalls.

The response was immediate; STL students were eager for opportunities to work with kids and apply their skills in real-world settings.

The program has evolved since, including newly licensed teachers, teacher candidates, and practicum students, creating a collaborative environment.

"I'm looking across multi-generations of students right now, and they all mentor each other," Julia says.

This mentorship model has proven to be highly effective. Newly licensed teachers, and some with just a few years into their careers, return to the program each summer to continue their involvement and support newer students. This cycle builds a strong sense of community and mutual support among teachers.

"Through this program, I'm able to share the advice I received-and even some I wish I had-when I first took on a class of students," says Brooklyn DeMars, an area art teacher and MSUM alumna.

CFKT provides a platform for future educators to have confidence and develop their teaching skills. It allows them to take ownership of their classrooms and gain valuable experience that prepares them for their future careers.

Ryan Stangl, a music education student-teacher, says, "One of the best parts of learning to be a teacher at MSUM is the opportunity to feel like part of the profession right away."

The program also addresses a critical issue in the education sector: teacher retention.

"We have a young teaching workforce, and with such a clear need for great educators, we must start trusting new graduates. Our candidates and alum take this responsibility seriously and are eager to enhance the field as quickly as possible; even at the earliest stages of their careers," Julia explains.

CFKT not only benefits future educators but also the students they teach. The program offers a variety of classes for children and teens, many of whom may not initially see themselves pursuing higher education.

"Kids that come to join us can see themselves here. A lot of them may not see themselves going to college, but they can relate to our instructors," Julia says.

This connection between students and instructors creates a positive learning environment and encourages children to aspire to higher education.

Looking ahead, the CFKT program aims to continue its growth and expand its offerings. This year marked one of the most successful years for enrollment and finances, with 20 percent of the students having a full scholarship.

Jordan Mattson is a senior majoring in Social Studies Education with an emphasis in History and Sociology, who has been part of the program.

"CFKT has allowed student teachers like me to continue getting experience in a classroom with different age groups and behaviors outside of usual school hours. I am so thankful Julia and Sean have allowed me to join to teach and learn at CFKT," Jordan says.

"The goal of the School of Teaching and Learning is to change education from the inside out. We have educators who know how important education and teacher preparation are. We try to stay relevant, diversify our teaching force, and innovate," Julia says.

With dedicated faculty, a supportive community, and a focus on practical experience, the CFKT program is setting a new standard for teacher preparation. This program's impact is evident in the confidence and success of its participants, both in the classroom and beyond.

"MSUM is as an education/teacher-based campus, with strong programs for future teachers and strong faculty that wants nothing more than to see their student teachers succeed and go on to teach for years to come," Jordan says.