Students in Danielle Schmidt’s first-grade class recently held a surprise graduation party for Howell High School senior Shelby Douglas. Douglas has worked with Schmidt’s class all year as part of Howell High School’s Early Childhood Education program.
Students in the program are introduced to various education careers such as being a preschool or elementary school teacher. As part of the program, high school students receive hands-on learning opportunities by completing placements in daycares and elementary schools.
Schmidt’s class planned the party for Douglas as a way to thank her dedication and contributions to the class throughout the year. Each student made a card for Douglas and wrote her an acrostic poem, which were read during the celebration.
“I have had the honor and privilege of hosting Shelby in my classroom for the past year and a half. There are no words to express how impressed I have been with her knowledge base, diligence, work ethic and competency in working with the students,” said Schmidt. “As Shelby nears graduation in a few weeks, our class wanted to plan something special to thank her for all that she has done this year.”
“The Early Childhood program has taught me so much. It has taught me how to care unconditionally for all students, how to manage a classroom, go on field trips and manage a field trip, just so much,” said Douglas. “It (the surprise celebration) was so shocking. I had no idea; maybe I’m just gullible, but I thought we were just coming to the library.”
After graduation, Douglas plans to attend Michigan State University where she will major in elementary education.
