Glacier Ridge Hosts South High Students for Education Career Exploration

Glacier Ridge Elementary recently welcomed students from District 155’s South High School, enrolled in the Dual Credit Introduction to Education course, for a full-day classroom shadowing experience. Each student spent time in a different classroom, observing teachers in action, supporting students with their work, and even reading aloud. District 155 students took detailed notes on instructional strategies and will use these observations to complete a reflective assignment. Dr. Anastasia Gruper, Glacier Ridge Principal, stated, “It was really powerful for everyone involved: teachers and students.” 

The day also included lunch with Glacier Ridge administrators, during which students discussed career paths in education, and time spent on the playground during recess. Both teachers and students enjoyed having the high school visitors, who left with a deeper understanding of the teaching profession.

In addition to the shadowing experience, District 47 educators Erin Norton, Rachel Brouder, and Dr. Anastasia Gruper visited Central High School to participate in an educator panel for the same course. They shared their individual journeys in education in a 20-minute presentation, followed by a 20-minute Q&A, during which they answered student questions about the teaching profession.

These initiatives reflect District 47’s ongoing commitment to supporting aspiring educators. Both experiences offered valuable learning opportunities for high school students and meaningful engagement for District 47 teachers, highlighting the power of mentorship and real-world exposure in shaping the next generation of educators.