MEP practicum provides rewarding experience

Bloomsburg University’s Migrant Education Program practicum extends beyond the typical teaching experience.

“The environment of the summer MEP was always positive and promoted ongoing learning, not only for the students, but for the interns as well,” said Molly McCafferty ’18, a two-year MEP participant and recent education graduate. “The main goal of MEP is to ensure all migrant students achieve challenging academic standards and graduate with a high school diploma (or complete a GED, and upon graduation are prepared for responsible citizenship, further learning and productive employment.”

McCafferty initially got involved with the MEP through BU’s three-credit summer practicum program offered. This past summer, she returned as a hired educational assistant.

“My practicum and MEP employment were significant in my preparation as a future educator,” McCafferty said. “It provided me with professional experience and enhanced my own education. MEP afforded me the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors and even though the summer program has ended, my relationship with my mentors is ongoing.”

McCafferty is one of a handful of College of Education students granted the opportunity to participate in this program. Reina Alberto ’18, also spent two summers with the program. First with the practicum program and then as a hired aid. Being from the Hazleton area, Alberto has a special connection to this program.

“I have a lot of personal sympathy for some of these students,” Alberto said. “Some have families who work tremendous amount of hours to be able to provide for them. This program is a stepping-stone into bridging the foundation between school and home. The power this program has is really enriching for the Hazleton community and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

According to Caryn Terwilliger, MEP practicum coordinator, the month-long summer experience at Hazletown School District offers numerous learning experiences.

“Practicum participants are paired with a mentor teacher in their area of certification to enhance cultural competence through the teaching of formal lessons, attendance in professional development workshops emphasizing ESL strategies and practices and through collaboration with families and teachers to plan for student success,” said Terwilliger, professor of teaching and learning. “The practicum is open to all education majors who have been formally admitted into the program.”

Students interested would be required to travel to the Hazletown area Monday-Friday for five weeks out of the summer. The practicum exists with the support of the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit who provide educational aid to the eligible Migrant Education students residing in 27 counties in the region.