Polk State Early Childhood Education student gets hands-on experience for dream job through field study
Jose Betancourt’s dream is to one day own his own daycare center. For his field study through the Polk State College Early Childhood Education Program, Betancourt is getting all the experience he needs to make…
Polk State Education Program uses internship program to help fill classrooms
Through its partnership with Polk County Public Schools, the Polk State College Education Program has found innovative ways to create opportunities and address teacher shortages. One of these is the Temporary Teacher Internship Certification Pathway…
Polk State alum named Polk County Public Schools Principal of the Year
Suzie Nelson’s journey to being named 2024-25 Polk County Public Schools Principal of the Year is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and the powerful impact of education. Playing a key role was Polk State…
Polk State professor and alum achieves doctorate
Professor of Education Joanne Scharff serves as an inspiration to her students as not only a Polk State College alum but also a recent Southeastern University graduate who achieved her Doctorate of Education. As a…
Polk State, Polk County Public Schools partnership prepares paraeducators to excel as teachers
The Polk State College Education Program has long prided itself on creating the next generation of exemplary teachers. Its newest program, however, targets those already working in local schools. In just its second year, the…
Polk State Education Program to hold open house-style events on both campuses this fall
The Polk State College Education Program will offer a “TEACH Night” on each campus during the Fall 2024 Semester. The events will allow those interested to receive more information about the program. The first of…
Education grad named Teacher of the Year thanks Polk State for “all they invested in me”
Heather Kunze says she wanted to be a teacher as long as she could remember, but it wasn’t until her thirties that she “finally decided to buckle down and do this for myself – for…
Polk State Education student named Employee of the Year at Carlton Palmore Elementary
Julia Barrett is wowing professionals in the field of education before she even has her degree in hand. She was named School-Related Employee of the Year at Carlton Palmore Elementary, where she serves as a…
Polk State graduate named Teacher of the Year driven by upbringing in foster care
Ashley Ray was inspired to become a teacher to give back to students like her and her siblings who grew up in foster care and became adopted brothers and sisters. Ray was named Teacher of…
Polk State brings teacher education closer to home for students in Winter Haven, East Polk
Polk State College is expanding its Education Program with classes starting in August on the Winter Haven Campus. Students who live on the east side of Polk County are grateful for the opportunity to save…