Helping Bridge the Gap Between Academic Learning and Real-World Experience
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alexandria, Virginia — This summer, Hopkins House is partnering with local colleges and universities to provide practical field and work-based learning experiences for high school and college students pursuing careers in education, healthcare, and related fields.
Through collaborations with Northern Virginia Community College, the University of Maryland, George Mason University, and Chamberlain University, at least 15 students will gain valuable hands-on experience this summer while supporting the learning and development of the young scholars enrolled in the Hopkins House Preschool Academy.
Five high school students participating in Northern Virginia Community College’s Work-Based Learning Alliance program this summer will be mentored by members of the Hopkins House Early Childhood Learning Institute (ECLI) team. These students will receive exposure to workplace expectations, professional skills development, and career exploration opportunities designed to help them prepare for future employment and post-secondary success.
University of Maryland and George Mason University
In addition, two high school students enrolled in the University of Maryland’s Maryland Early Education Career (MEEC) Youth Apprenticeship Program will work directly with Preschool Academy Young Scholars on STEM-related activities and projects. These experiences will allow these young people to strengthen their leadership and instructional skills while helping introduce the Preschool Academy Young Scholars to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts.
Hopkins House will also host as many as two students enrolled in George Mason University’s Early Childhood Special Education program, who will complete their required observation hours at the Helen Day Preschool Academy while gaining experience supporting young children with disabilities in an inclusive early learning environment.
Chamberlain University Pediatric Nursing Students
At the James L. & Juliette McNeil Preschool Academy, six students from Chamberlain University’s pediatric nursing program will participate in field experiences designed to strengthen their understanding of child development, health, and wellness while working alongside early childhood educators and young children.
“These partnerships create meaningful learning opportunities for these young people while strengthening the services Hopkins House provides to children and families,” said J. Glenn Hopkins, President and CEO of Hopkins House. “By opening our classrooms and programs to future educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, Hopkins House helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experience. At the same time, we introduce talented young people to the rewards and importance of careers serving children and families.”
The summer partnerships reflect Hopkins House’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and community engagement. By serving as a learning laboratory for students from multiple disciplines, Hopkins House helps cultivate the next generation of professionals while strengthening relationships with educational institutions throughout the region.
Founded in 1939, Hopkins House is one of Northern Virginia’s oldest nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening children, families, and communities through high-quality early childhood education, workforce development, and family support services. Through its Preschool Academy and Early Childhood Learning Institute (ECLI), Hopkins House serves hundreds of children, youth, and families each year across the metropolitan area.
