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Rich Township High School District's Introduction to Teaching Students Dive Into School Operations Dual Credit Introduction to Teaching – This semester, students enrolled in Rich Township High School District’s Introduction to Teaching class have embarked on an immersive journey to understand the intricacies of district operations and the essential roles within school administration and teaching. As part of their curriculum, students toured the administration offices at both campuses, gaining valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities that support student success. They met with Co-Principals Ms. Wells and Mr. Fields and spent the week interviewing administrative clerical staff to experience the inner workings of school leadership and its many responsibilities. Students also had the unique opportunity to meet with Dr. Jeff Bonomo, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Dr. Bonomo shared his career journey within the district, from his beginnings as a science teacher to his current role as a district administrator. He discussed the responsibilities of his position as head of Human Resources, emphasizing the importance of recruiting, retaining, and supporting quality educators and staff within the district. His story provided students with an inspiring look at career progression within educational administration. To deepen their understanding, students shadowed Ms. Martinez and her co-teacher Mrs. Raetz. They observed four different classes, focusing on classroom cultures and student engagement, and witnessed the parallel teaching strategy in action. Through parallel teaching, Ms. Martinez and Mrs. Raetz each lead small groups of students simultaneously, allowing for more targeted instruction and engagement. Students learned how Ms. Martinez and Mrs. Raetz collaborate closely to plan lessons that meet the diverse needs of students in their co-taught classroom, highlighting the importance of teamwork and adaptability in a co-teaching environment. The students also connected with a diverse group of professionals across the district. They spoke with Ms. Baker, the Fine Arts Campus Media Center Specialist, to learn about media center operations and the new resources available to students. They met with Mr. Graham, Associate Principal of Operations at the Fine Arts Campus, to understand logistical planning within the district. Additionally, Ms. Jessica Watson, Post-Secondary Coordinator, shared her expertise on college and career readiness for students. Teachers from various departments also shared their perspectives, including Science teacher Ms. Lavin, Child Development and Early Childhood Education teacher Ms. Wilk (also the district’s union vice president), and Spanish teacher Ms. Lopez. Lesson Objectives: As part of this program, students are addressing critical questions that shape their understanding and perspective as future educators: What is policy, how is it formed, and how will it affect me as a future educator? How do political organizations, like school boards, influence the work of educators? How do school systems and their internal structures shape the responsibilities and challenges faced by educators? The Introduction to Teaching class aims to inspire the next generation of educators and provide students with a comprehensive view of school operations. Through these hands-on experiences, students gain real-world insights into education careers and the dedication and teamwork essential to delivering quality education within Rich Township High School District.

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FAST Facts

2,261

Student Enrollment

85%

Graduation Rate

89%

Freshmen on Track

2

Campuses - Fine Arts & Communication and STEM

609

Number of Staff

20/07

Advanced Placement Course/Career Clusters

IB

World School in Middle Year Programme & Diploma Programme

60

Extra-curricular Offerings