Make a difference in the lives of students

If you’ve always known you wanted to be a teacher, this is the program for you! In Teacher Academy, you’ll learn the foundation of what makes a great teacher and then put that knowledge into practice in a real classroom in the community as you work alongside a mentor teacher. 

Begin your teaching journey as you:

  • Create lesson plans
  • Discover the art of classroom management
  • Explore all the ways that students learn
  • Get actual classroom experience in a range of subjects, settings and grades
  • Practice your teaching skills alongside a mentor
  • Understand how school systems are structured and organized
  • Explore opportunities for scholarships and free college credit

Tools & Equipment

Here are some of the tools that you'll learn to use in this course:

  • Smartboards
  • Lavalier microphone
  • Chromebooks
  • Google Classroom
  • YouTube

Available Certifications

Through this program, you’ll be prepared to earn a certification in:

  • MiYDA

Potential College Credit

Up to 12 free college credits available*

The number of possible credits vary by college. 

*Students must meet minimum requirements. 

Possible Career Options & Earning Potential

The range of pay for professionals in Education careers covers a broad range and depends upon many factors. Below are annual salary ranges for a few roles this program may lead you into.

With a HS diploma (some certification could be required):

  • Childcare Worker
    Entry Level: $27,210 | Median: $30,970 | High End: $39,340
  • Classroom Aide/Paraprofessional
    Entry Level: $27,550 | Median: $35,110 | High End: $45,370

With additional college and/or advanced certifications:

  • Preschool Teacher
    Entry Level: $30,310 | Median: $37,110 | High End: $50,720
  • Guidance Counselor
    Entry Level: $42,380 | Median: $59,440 | High End: $89,280
  • K-12 Teacher
    Entry Level: $46,530 | Median: $65,110 | High End: $98,720
  • Instructional Coordinator
    Entry Level: $51,830 | Median: $79,290 | High End: $108,970
  • Postsecondary (College) Education Teachers
    Entry Level: $45,300 | Median: $79,910 | High End: $138,850
  • School Administrator (ie. Principal)
    Entry Level: $77,340 | Median: 104,020 | High End: $134,430

* Note: Job titles and salary data are taken directly from O*Net (as of 2026).

Program Location(s)

Classes take place at:

Kent Career Tech Center

Alan Freudigmann Taught at East Kentwood HS for 15 years
Lisa Rilley Teaches Art Education Methods at Hope College
Melissa Pierczynski Adjunct faculty at Grand Valley State University
Toni Verburg CTES
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