Submitted Photo Dunkirk High School students interested in potential careers in education listen to Elizabeth Starks, coordinator of Jamestown Community College’s early childhood education program.

Jamestown Community College and Dunkirk High School are forming a Teacher Education Academy to provide students in grades 10 to 12 a head start on careers in education.

The academy is designed to help address the need for teachers for all grade levels. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that 1.9 million positions for preschool through postsecondary education will exist through 2024.

Dunkirk High School students interested in the academy participated in an information session presented recently by JCC faculty members Elizabeth Starks, coordinator of the early childhood education program, and Renee Funke, director of the education program. During the interactive session, students performed activities used in classroom settings ranging from pre-school to high school grade levels.

In addition to including courses required for high school graduation, the academy pathway will also provide participants an opportunity to complete college-level credit courses through College Connections, JCC’s concurrent enrollment program. The academy also offers after-school club activities ranging from guest speakers to field trips.

Dunkirk High School students interested in learning more about the Teacher Education Academy should contact their guidance counselor.

For more about JCC and the College Connections program, visit www.sunyjcc.edu.