In September and October, high school students from the Academy of Aquaculture and the Academy of Culinary Arts at SJTHS stepped into leadership roles by planning and presenting engaging lessons to four classes of 3- and 4-year-olds in the Early Childhood Education program at First Coast Technical College.
Aquaculture students led an interactive session focused on bees and pollinators. Their lesson included a vibrant slideshow presentation and a lively game of pictorial BINGO, helping preschoolers understand the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem through play and visual learning.
Meanwhile, Culinary Arts students introduced the young learners to the world of food service. Using props like food items and kitchen supplies, they taught lessons on job responsibilities, teamwork, and sharing. Their session featured a fun sing-along video and a reading of the beloved children’s book Pete the Cat, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
These academy students showcased exceptional leadership, organization, and teamwork in executing their lessons. Their efforts not only enriched the preschoolers’ learning experience but also demonstrated the power of peer mentorship and community engagement. They are true role models—both to their classmates and to the young children they inspired.
Looking Ahead: The Academy of Aquaculture and Culinary Arts students will continue to teach monthly lessons throughout the school year, building on their success and deepening their impact on early learners.
