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SMITHVILLE — The Texas Afterschool Centers on Education program partnered with Smithville High School this semester to create a new option for dedicated pupils in the area.
Profession Alignment With Service aims to reach high school students that either need to make up attendance hours, are interested in a career in education or are in need of a mentor. Participants volunteer after school hours to assist ACE teachers and work on assignments with fellow learners.
Students reported gaining more from the experience than they initially expected, with smiles across the board.
“The kids are amazing and funny. I appreciate every second I was able to spend with them,” said ninth-grader Ty. “They brightened my day a lot after a long day of school, I am glad I got the opportunity.”
The PAWS program welcomed 10 new high school students in the spring semester.
“Many of the students may have started this program to make up hours, but the joy shining in their eyes tells me they are experiencing the passion that comes along with being an educator,” said ACE coordinator Perez. “My hope is to grow the PAWS program into an educator pathway to give students the opportunity to learn alongside seasoned teachers, work in the ACE after school and summer programs and potentially be hired as paraprofessionals when they graduate high school.”
Representatives recognize the value of the program and plan to continue it into the 2024-25 school year.
“This program has played a vital role in building self-esteem, growing responsibility and developing leadership skills in participating students,” Assistant Principal Brenda Ricketts added.
For more information, contact dperez@smithvilleisd. org.
