The Abraham S. Fischler College of Education will launch its new program, known as The Fischler Academy, in the fall.
Approximately 100 incoming freshman who will be a part of the program will earn their bachelor’s and master’s degree in education on either a four or five year track as well as partake in experiential education opportunities and are guaranteed a job offer in a local county — Broward, Palm Beach, Collier or Lee — school upon graduation.
Luke Williams, director of The Fischler Academy, said the program was created to align with the college’s values of being innovators in education.
“It’s a program that is built to shape aspiring educators and future leaders,” said Williams. “Built into our mission is that being an educator is — and this is built into our core values — being champions for social justice, for equity, for students of all backgrounds to have the opportunity to thrive and be successful. And one of the ways that they can do that is by having a teacher leader in the classroom, someone with the expertise and background to really assist them with trying to reach their dreams.
Sherilynn Soto, a sophomore elementary education major, said that she thinks the program will be a good addition to the college.
“I believe The Fischler Academy provides great opportunities to students, especially where you can receive your Master’s within the four years of your college experience,” said Soto. “The Fischler college in general has such a friendly environment and everyone is willing to help.”
“Built into our mission is that being an educator is — and this is built into our core values — being champions for social justice, for equity, for students of all backgrounds to have the opportunity to thrive and be successful.”
-Luke Williams, director of The Fischler Academy
Williams said the program is designed to combine theory with practical experience, thus students will have different practical experiences throughout their program. For example, students will work as tutors for the university their sophomore year, work in the America Reads and America Counts program, which aids elementary school students their junior year, and work as a substitute teacher before completing their internship their senior year. Students will also travel abroad with a professor during the spring break of their sophomore year to gain a more global perspective as a student and educator.
Another benefit of the program is financial. Students in the program will receive a $17,000 annual scholarship.
“Students have the opportunity to get a private education at a public price,” said Williams. “And I say that because there are other [external] grants and scholarships for people who are interested in the education field that can stack onto that.”
Williams said that there’s been discussion about offering certain aspects of The Fischler Academy to students who are already part of the education program, but as of right now the program is only available to first-time college students. For more information on the program, go to education.nova.edu/fischleracademy/index.html.
