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We are proud to offer the only Early Childhood Education High School Program in Iredell County!
Class overview
We offer Early Childhood I & II at WIHS. Both are semester-long classes, held during first and second block. During first block, students gain hands-on experience as they complete their internship hours in the Little Warrior's Classroom (ages 2-5). During second block, they return to Mrs. Shea's classroom for content instruction and learning experience planning. When the ECE classes are full with 10-15 students, we are able to coordinate with our feeder elementary schools to use their childcare or kindergarten classrooms for internships. Our community is very supportive of our program!
Students learn how to lead circle time, arts & crafts, games, and thematic learning center activities for preschoolers. They learn how to teach and care for children using developmentally appropriate methods for the classroom.
Students must complete the Child Development prerequisite course in order to be considered for our Early Childhood program. Students are held to high expectations, given the nature of the internship experience. In Early Childhood Ed. (ECE) I students earn 2 high school credits, one college credit which is equivalent to EDU 119 at any NC community college, and a credential that allows them to immediately be considered for lead teacher positions in the childcare field upon graduation, and earn a higher wage in those positions.
Ms. Liz helping preschoolers with Green Eggs and Ham counting and coloring activity
Many students graduate from West and attend community college while working part time in a childcare center to gain more experience. Many pursue education degrees so they can teach kindergarten.
About Mrs. Shea
I have 27 years of teaching experience, mostly with young children. I took a class like this in high school with a great teacher who inspired me to pursue a career in child development, which I am truly passionate about. What I have learned has also made me a better mom. I always knew that I eventually wanted to teach high school to share the same inspiration with future generations, making passionate & knowledgable teachers and/or great future parents! I earned my bachelor's degree in Child Development from App State, Birth-Kindergarten certification from UNCC, and recently certified in Family and Consumer Sciences to teach at the high school level.
I'm proud to be a West Iredell WARRIOR!
About Mrs. Traci
I earned my early my childhood credentials & have 20 yrs experience working in Iredell Statesville Schools, three of which have been as lead teacher in the Little Warriors classroom. I love working with young children to see how much they learn and accomplish throughout the school year. Being part of their growth and success is very rewarding. I have three children of my own, two of whom are students at WIHS! Go Warriors!
About Mrs. Mel
I earned my early my childhood credentials & have 9 yrs of experience working in childcare centers and preschools, three of which have been as lead teacher in the Little Warriors classroom. I love working with young children to help them grow and develop as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond. I have two daughters of my own in elementary school. Guiding young children as they develop socially and academically brings me joy as I get to see their progress.
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