OMAHA, Neb., Feb. 1, 2017 – The Greater Omaha Chamber in partnership with Metropolitan Community College and Iowa Western Community College, are now accepting applications for their 2017 Educator Internship program, an opportunity for area teachers, counselors and administrators to immerse in a modern workplace and bring their experiences back to the classroom.
“By partnering with local businesses, we’re able to educate our educators in a very real, hands-on way, allowing them firsthand insights into specific career areas and the skills needed to succeed. When our interns incorporate that awareness and excitement into their lesson plans, it helps students better understand and engage in the job opportunities waiting for them after graduation,” said Alexis Bromley, manager – Team Talent, Greater Omaha Chamber.
Any teacher, counselor or administrator in the Omaha (Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, Cass, and Dodge Counties) and Council Bluffs (Pottawattamie, Harrison, and Mills Counties) area is eligible to apply. 100 participants will be selected based upon their subject areas, school and experiences they represent. All participants must complete and submit an application by March 7.
Internships last one week (approx. 40 hours) and can be coordinated during the weeks of: June 5-9, June 12-16 and June 19-23. Upon completion of requirements, educator-interns will receive a maximum $600 stipend.
“These internships provide learning experiences in various businesses that help teachers connect academic content with real-world examples, “ said Daniel Trerice, Director of Secondary Partnerships, Metropolitan Community College.
“Participation in the program results in enhanced curriculum and ultimately, the passing of that knowledge on to students and our future workforce,” said Natalie Harris, Intermediary Network Coordinator, Iowa Western Community College.
Internships are expected to target areas specifically focused on: healthcare; industrial tech; transportation/logistics; manufacturing; agriculture; career counseling and S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). During the application process, educators will request preferred areas of skills and knowledge-building. The Chamber is responsible for coordinating with educators and host companies.