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 it a successful one.

Since January, Betancourt has spent three days per week at the Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center at Bonnet Springs Park. According to its website, the center “is a community-based learning and resource center that provides classes, playgroups, workshops, developmental checkups, community activities, and support for parents and caregivers of children ages 0-6, as well as for expectant moms and dads.”

“Heaven for children”

“My experience has been awesome,” Betancourt exclaimed. “The people who work here are professional, kind, and caring. It’s like heaven for children. There’s so much for them to explore and engage with.”

At the Resource Center, Betancourt works closely with teacher Amber Johnson. His duties include observing children’s progress, reading stories and singing songs to the children, classroom preparation, and helping create assignments. Johnson said Betancourt has gone above and beyond.

“The first thing that stood out when Jose started working with us was his desire to create relationships with the children and families,” Johnson explained. “He made it a point to learn the children’s names—which is difficult since we have different children each day and use them. He immediately noticed a family who spoke only Spanish and made it a point to translate for the family. These are skills that cannot be taught. Jose is also eager to assist with anything and everything. From leading lessons in the classroom to cleaning the classroom at the end of the day, he is happy to lend a hand.”

“The most rewarding thing has been spending time with the children – watching them interact, grow, laugh,” Betancourt reflected. “I’ve watched shy kids grow through learning and make new friends. It’s the perfect center.”

Motivation to make a difference

Betancourt credits one of his former teachers, Joey Hernandez, who taught at Fountain Christian Bilingual School in Puerto Rico for instilling the passion for education in him.

“My seventh-grade English teacher was my role model,” he recalled. “He convinced me that there is no better field than education. It’s not about the money; it’s about making a difference. I’ve always wanted to be a role model. I want to impact future generations, help create a better society, and make the world a more united place.”

Betancourt moved to the area shortly before enrolling at Polk State for the Fall 2023 Semester. Knowing he always wanted to be an educator, Betancourt credited Polk State’s advisors and success coaches with helping him pick the program that best coincided with his goals.

“(Success Coach) Keila Febo was a great advisor,” Betancourt said. “We went over the curriculum and she talked me through what to expect.”

The Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education and Management allows teacher candidates to earn two Polk State professional certificates and satisfy eligibility requirements to apply for two State of Florida credentials. Set to graduate in May, Betancourt raved about the program.

“All of my education professors have been great mentors,” Betancourt explained. “They pay great attention to detail. They really take time to get to know their students. They give you advice about life and for your career. They were easy to trust and open up to. They really care.”

A degree with credentials

As part of Polk State’s Early Childhood Education Program, students are required to complete 140 field study hours. For his work at the Children’s Resource Center, Betancourt will also receive the Florida Child Care Professional Credential which equates to a Preschool Certificate.

“The biggest benefit of having interns with the field study program is creating a partnership between the local colleges and the United Way of Central Florida,” Johnson added. “Interns who work here get the opportunity to work, not just with children, but with the families and community partners, also. They get the true experience of ‘it takes a village.’ It benefits the interns to work with children and families from birth to 5 years old, rather than being limited to a classroom with just one age group.

“The most important skill I strive to instill in interns is the understanding that learning isn’t just about ABCs and 123s — it happens all the time,” Johnson continued. “Whether it’s collaborating with peers in the dramatic play center or retelling stories using flannel board props, every interaction is a learning experience. Ultimately, children need adults who respect and listen to them while providing structure, routine, and clear boundaries.”

A blueprint for success

More about the Polk State program can be found here. Betancourt offered advice for those considering the program.

“It’s a great program for students who want to work in education,” he noted. “Take as many in-person classes as you can. Get a full on-campus experience. It’s a great hands-on opportunity.”

As he dreams of one day running his own daycare, Betancourt said his time at the Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center will serve as a blueprint.

“It has helped me so much,” he concluded. “I’ve written down everything I can. I’ve learned so much – materials, curriculum, activities, everything I need to be successful.”