Five Decatur High School students enrolled in an Introduction to Education course recently visited the College of Education and Health Professions' Department of Curriculum and Instruction to participate in teacher preparation courses.

Decatur High School's visit was supported by the Razorback STARS (Strong Teachers for Arkansas Rural Students) grant from the U.S. Department of Education, a "Grow Your Own" teacher pathway initiative that engages students as pre-educators beginning in high school by providing relevant coursework, opportunities to begin building teaching skills, and options to accrue college credits while still in high school, connecting high school with post-secondary learning.*

During their visit, students met with Sheri Deaton and Karmen Bell, faculty members in curriculum and instruction. They also visited the Razorback Educator Development Hub, received information on admissions and enjoyed a walking tour of campus. 

Students were eager to see academic buildings on campus and learn the history of Old Main and the U of A as a land grant institution. Although some students had previously participated in campus events, one noted that it was his first time on campus. 

 "We had such a transformative experience today," said Decatur High School teacher Dan Meyer. "They have been buzzing with excitement for teaching. It went better than I ever could have imagined."

Decatur School District is a partner of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction on the Teacher Quality Partnership Grant. This five-year, $525,013 grant recruits teacher candidates for high-needs areas by creating pathways for local residents to pursue teacher licensure and teach in their communities. 

The Career and Technical Education pathway, which includes the students' Introduction to Education course, is one of the "Grow Your Own" pathways. The course is being offered at Decatur High School for the first time this year through the STARS partnership.

Razorback STARS academic liaison Kristen Scott coordinated the visit. Christine Ralston serves as principal investigator for the grant along with co-investigators Jennifer Beasley, Christy Smith and Vicki Collet.

The project supports the development of highly effective teachers through selection, preparation, induction and retention, including mentoring and professional development.