Seattle school program leads the way for America’s future educators

During a cloudy day in West Seattle, Summit Atlas ninth grader Beni Zundel passed out lollipops to sixth graders engaging in a lesson about matter and light. Only three years their senior, Zundel thrives in her two-week long Teaching Assistant role, mentoring the children in science and ensuring that their work was not only satisfactory but successful. This short-term role turned into a weekly opportunity for Zundel, furthering her interest in pursuing education.

At Summit Atlas, a Seattle charter public school, a unique program known as "Expeditions" empowers students to explore their passions and develop essential skills. This program allows students to engage in local partnerships, giving them hands-on experience in various fields. For ninth graders, like Zundel, this opportunity is particularly significant, serving as a stepping stone toward their future careers.

“Expeditions offer our students the chance to explore a wide range of career fields through our personalized learning approach and academic model,” says Portia Reidel, Dean of Expeditions.

“As a small high school, we can tailor these experiences to meet each student's needs, helping them discover their ‘Concrete Next Step.’ This is the very purpose of Expeditions: to allow students with specific interests to try out a potential career path before committing to a college program, graduate degree, or the lengthy and costly post-high school training often required for many professions.”

Zundel, who joined Summit Atlas in seventh grade, chose to become a Teacher Assistant for her Expedition.

"I always wanted to make a change in the world," she says. "I wish to be that person for young kids so I can support and help them through their struggles of growing up." By working closely with sixth graders, Zundel discovered not only her passion for teaching but also the impact she can have on younger students.

As a Teacher Assistant, Zundel’s responsibilities included supporting science teacher Ms. McCallum’s class and assisting students with their final projects. Zundel believes she made a positive impact, as students often turned to her when they were unsure about what to do. She also emphasized the importance of setting boundaries, managing to maintain respect in the classroom  while still allowing for an enjoyable atmosphere.

“Beni’s sense of responsibility has amplified since she first stepped foot into my classroom,” says Ms. McCallum. “Beni is beginning to grasp the leadership aspect of teaching, taking the lead in guiding students through their Do Now activities at the start of class. While it’s one thing to be a student who loves school and academics, it’s another to excel in a teaching role and effectively meet the needs of each student."

This experience solidified Zundel’s desire to become a teacher. Such aspirations resonate deeply within the Expeditions framework at Summit Atlas, where students are encouraged to explore their interests and cultivate leadership skills early on.

Reflecting on her ninth-grade experience, Zundel expresses gratitude for the maturity and respect she receives from her teachers, who treat students as equals while still maintaining authority.

This environment encourages personal growth and allows students to navigate their challenges more effectively.

“By giving them a 'day in the life' experience, we provide them with valuable insights to make informed decisions,” says Portia Reidel. “It’s crucial for students to gain this hands-on understanding, especially when navigating the education system can feel so different from actually being in the workforce. This firsthand experience is incredibly important.”

One of the most rewarding moments for Zundel was the recognition she received from the sixth graders she assisted. "A bunch of middle schoolers would run up to me and say, 'Beni!! She's the best high schooler!'"

Zundel’s pride in making a positive impact encapsulates the essence of the Expeditions program, which not only prepares students for future careers but also cultivates empathy and leadership.

Summit Atlas is setting a powerful precedent with its Expeditions program, especially for ninth graders like Zundel who are poised to become the next generation of educators. By fostering early connections between students and their aspirations, the school is not only enriching individual lives but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future in education. As Zundel and her peers embark on their journeys, they are already becoming the change-makers they wish to see in the world.

“It’s inspiring to see students like her – joyful and grateful for the opportunity – forming meaningful relationships with younger students,” says Reidel. “One of the sixth-graders in her class, for example, who was usually quiet, opened up and became more engaged when she introduced new activities. These moments highlight how valuable these experiences are for both our students and the community they’re building.”