Chelsea Center

Students enrolled in the Chelsea Center Teaching & Learning Cohort study the art of teaching and are part of the Grow-Your-Own educator program designed to attract alumni home to teach in WGSD once credentialed. Students explore teaching through observations, small group instruction, and supported teaching opportunities in K-8 classrooms throughout WGSD. Through a partnership with Webster University, students gain access to their virtual classroom simulator and workshop sessions with faculty from Webster University’s School of Education. If they meet certain qualifications, students may also earn 4 hours of dual credit from Webster University--the cost of which is currently funded by a grant.

The cohort has had the pleasure of hearing from three special guest speakers this quarter: Dr. Tony Gragnani, Principal of WGHS; Dr. Shane Williamson, WGSD Director of Equity and Inclusion; and Mr. Glenn Detrick, educational catalyst and founder of the Chelsea Center for Experiential Education. Dr. Gragnani explained his path from the Mizzou school of education to a high school social studies teacher, then his unexpected trajectory toward school administration which brought him here to Webster Groves High School as Principal. He provided many valuable pointers for students to consider as they move into college, student teaching, and then the workforce. Dr. Williamson took students through a thought process to help them seek and convey multiple perspectives in the service of intentionally creating a learning environment where every child can be seen and affirmed. Finally, Mr. Detrick helped students analyze their own experiences with education thus far and reflect on which had been positive to their learning, and which were detrimental. He encouraged the cohort to use the sum of those experiences as a catalyst to deepen their understanding of the leadership and teaching stance they wish to develop.

Students have also been engaged in extended practicum observations at Avery Elementary, Edgar Road Elementary, and Hixson Middle schools. A huge thank you to Principals Hannah Peterson, Emily Burst, and Shenita Mayes and their cadre of wonderful teachers for welcoming these future teachers regularly into their spaces. Our students are seeing some wonderful examples of leadership and instruction within.

The Teaching and Learning Cohort class is available to Juniors and Seniors. The short video below gives a glimpse into the experience. Interested students should contact Dr. Kerry Arens, Coordinator of the Chelsea Center, at arens.kerry@wgmail.org.