“Creating positive experiences in school at a young age helps children carry the life choices they learn in [physical education] class to adulthood,” said Saint Joseph’s College student Emily (Bland) Field ’18. “I find it very rewarding to help young children learn how to live a healthy, positive life.”
Emily and her classmate Nathan Morin ’18 have become exemplary educators in classrooms and gymnasiums while studying in the physical education/teacher preparation program at Saint Joseph’s College. Both students were named 2017 Outstanding Future Professionals at the Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (MAHPERD) Annual Conference held in November 2017 at the Samoset Resort in Rockland, Maine.
Christopher Willer ’04 & ’15, who teaches and advises in the physical education/teacher preparation program at the College, explained, “Emily and Nate were nominated for this award as a result of their academic success and leadership here at Saint Joseph's College. Emily and Nate both possess the necessary skills and qualities to excel in the education profession.”
Nate chose physical education because he loves athletics and wants to use his passion to better communities. His most memorable experience as an undergraduate has been “student teaching in a diverse community at East End Community School in Portland.”
Both Emily and Nate hope to teach full-time. “With my degree from SJC I hope to be teaching in a school system as soon as possible, making a positive impact on the kids,” said Emily.
MAHPERD is a nonprofit organization for professionals and students dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Mainers by supporting and promoting effective educational practices, quality curriculum, instruction, the Maine Learning Results, and assessment in the areas of health, physical education, recreation, dance, and related fields. Saint Joseph’s College students have attended their annual conference for many years, which provides professional development opportunities based on current research and best practices.
The physical education major at Saint Joseph’s College is a State of Maine approved program comprised of liberal studies, education methodology, and a continuum of field experiences. The program prepares students to enter their field as career-focused, market savvy leaders in physical education.
-By Emma Deans, SJC Communications Officer
