Our alumni have gone on to become dedicated, impactful educators who are making a difference in schools across Nevada. Each of their journeys is a testament to the power of commitment and the transformative influence of TACPP. By offering the guidance, support, and resources they needed, TACPP helped these passionate individuals turn their love for teaching into fulfilling careers. Explore their inspiring stories to see how TACPP played a crucial role in shaping their paths and empowering them to make a lasting impact on the students and communities they serve.
I participated in the Teaching and Training program at Northwest Career and Technical Academy. I knew that I wanted to be a teacher since elementary school, and this program allowed me to follow that dream. The program allowed me to creatively express myself and was a look into what this pathway would be like in college. By working with the kindergarten and creating lesson plans throughout the years, I thought I had still wanted to teach elementary school. Now, I am teaching middle school computer science and I could not be happier. The Teaching and Training Program allowed me to explore different aspects of myself and what I could bring to the table as a teacher. In the end, I developed new skills that I still use today and have been able to step out of my comfort zone in order to flourish as a person and educator.
I graduated from NWCTA’s Teaching and Training Program in 2020. This program not only showed me what I loved about teaching, but also gave me a realistic look into what I did not want to do. When I first entered the program, I was dead set on becoming an elementary teacher, but through the internships and experiences I had in the program, I was shown that I was meant to teach secondary education. I am so grateful I learned that lesson sooner rather than later. This program also gave me enough university credits to graduate from UNR a year early, giving me the opportunity to teach high school at the age of 21. Now, in my second year of teaching, I have been hired by NWCTA as a sophomore English teacher; truly a full circle moment. To those students who are looking into this program or those who are currently enrolled, truly see your experiences here as a practical look into your future and know that because of this program, you are already two steps ahead.
My experience in the Teaching and Training program at Rancho High School has been transformative and deeply impactful. Over the past four years, I have evolved from a reserved student into a confident and engaged individual. The program’s supportive environment has been pivotal in encouraging me to articulate my thoughts, connect with others, and embrace new challenges. The hands-on teaching experiences and collaborative projects provided invaluable opportunities to grow my communication and leadership skills. Each presentation and group activity pushed me beyond my comfort zone, fostering a sense of self-assurance that I carry into all areas of my life. The friendships I formed during this time have created a robust support network that has significantly enhanced my high school experience and will continue to benefit me in the future. A recent highlight was reuniting with a former classmate during a student teaching volunteer event. Collaborating with them in the classroom truly made me realize how far we have come not only as students, but as individuals. This reunion exemplified the lasting connections forged through our collective journey. Additionally, the dual credit aspect of the program has greatly enriched my academic profile. Earning college credits while in high school has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in higher education. This experience has cultivated a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility that I will carry forward into my future endeavors. It has also allowed me to be placed in advanced classes that I find to enjoy as I love the depth of concepts that we enter. In summary, the Teaching and Training program at Rancho High School has profoundly influenced my personal and professional development. It has provided me with essential skills, ignited my passion for education, and fostered enduring relationships. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my journey and look forward to the future with enthusiasm.
Being a part of the Teaching and Training program at Rancho High School was an invaluable experience for me. I was among the first group of students to complete all four years of the program, and the knowledge I gained about the field of education was significant. I learned a variety of strategies, from managing classroom behavior to working with students who have learning deficits. These skills are essential for any teacher, and I am grateful for the foundation they provided. I graduated in 2020 during the pandemic, and due to the teacher shortage, I had the opportunity to substitute teach for a year. This experience allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I gained from the Teaching and Training program. Additionally, I was fortunate to secure a seat on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Nevada, where I continue to contribute to the community. Currently, I work as a Literacy Tutor at an elementary school in CCSD, helping students improve their reading skills. I remain committed to completing my education and becoming a full-time teacher in the Clark County School District.
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