Many students have heard of Dewey’s college course opportunities, but do they know the professor? Dewey offers college courses for students to begin taking while still in high school. There are about six classes in the school in which you can earn college credit.
Many of the staff probably took on the role as a professor to expand their professional responsibilities. This definitely has personal benefits and growth for the educator, but it also has great impacts on the school. “It’s more mature, you get to see some really serious kids and you get the freedom of discussing things you wouldn’t be able to in a normal high school level class.” During an interview, Mr. Danticat, a John Dewey High School dean and after school sociology professor, said.
For students, being able to take a college class with a school staff member they already know can be exciting. When asked if it helps that they know the professor as their other role, Senior Amina Malik said “Yes, because I’m comfortable talking to him.”
They gain a unique advantage as the professor gives them an insight on what the college environment might be like. Though not in a college class setting, their teachings offer an idea of what to expect. Mr. Danticat likes the fact that the students chose to be in a college level class and aren’t forced. This really shows that they enjoy the challenge.
A regular day most likely starts early in the morning as the teacher gets their lesson ready for their first period class or the dean waiting for students to come in. There’s also grading assignments, having faculty meetings, reviewing work, meeting with students, etc.
After a long day of teaching or walking around making sure students are safe and get to where they need to be, the staff need to switch gears and prepare for their college course. They have to change environments all while feeling tired sometimes.
“Teaching in a classroom is very different from being a dean.” Mr. Abdalla said, a JDHS dean and math professor. “When you’re a dean you really get to know the students but as a teacher you get to know them academically.” He then goes on to talk about how deans keep the school safe, make sure that students get to their classes, and how students come to them to resolve issues peacefully.
Being a dean is already an important job in a school environment and taking on another job as a professor, who teaches a college level course, shows how much the staff care about Dewey students’ future.
Maram Mohamed, a senior and current sociology student, refers to having two jobs as “fun”. She said “ I think it’s fun because imagine having two jobs at the same place and I also think it’s nice because they could experience change throughout the week.” Another benefit Mohamed pointed out is that the staff are able to have some change in their work life instead of doing the same thing everyday.
Despite the challenges that come with the dual role of a high school staff member and a college professor, there are rewards as well. It provides them with the opportunity to increase their professional skills because they are exposed to more advanced materials. Being able to help students with their academic career is another reward that comes with the role. The professor may feel fulfilled in helping students achieve college credits and a sense of higher education.
For any staff member who is considering taking on a college professor’s role, Mr. Danticat encourages it. “It’s a great experience. The autonomy you get is great, the students are great, and the interactions you get from it are great.”
