Northeast Metro Tech Recognizes the Educators of Tomorrow During Future Teacher Signing Day

WAKEFIELD — Northeast Metro Tech recognized and encouraged the educators of tomorrow during Future Teacher Signing Day, aimed at celebrating those who understand the importance of the teaching profession. 

Future Teacher Signing Day, held in late May, brought together 10 Northeast Metro Tech seniors who will pursue careers in education. 

Admiration for their Northeast teachers, participation in the early childcare program, family history and babysitting jobs are among the reasons students said they decided to pursue careers in education, committing to a life of helping young people learn and grow. 

“My mom and my aunt have always been in the field and I have always loved children and helping them learn and grow,” said Brooke Austin.

Diamond Johnson said faculty and staff at Northeast Metro Tech made her want to pursue teaching, because they supported her with her as a learner and ensured that she was engaged with her entire class. Johnson said Maria Dunn, a dedicated Health Assisting instructor, was especially inspiring and motivating.

Several students, like Micayla Neville, were able to already gain hands-on experience by working in the Golden Knights Preschool, which is operated by students and staff in the Early Childhood Education program at Northeast Metro Tech. 

“Through my shop, I learned how children develop social skills, confidence, and problem-solving abilities all through play,” said Alexa Kepple. “I was able to apply what I learned in real situations, building my leadership and communication which will benefit me in my future career.”

“Education can be a challenging but extremely rewarding career, and I applaud these students who have chosen to pursue it,” said Superintendent David DiBarri. “I would also like to recognize the faculty and staff here at Northeast Metro Tech, who have helped to inspire these students.”

The following students plan to pursue education as a career. Also listed is what they studied at Northeast Metro Tech, and what they will study in college. 

• Brooke Austin, Early Childhood Education, will study Early Childhood Education at Framingham State University
• Solmariz Calderon, Culinary, will study Early Education at North Shore Community College
• Eleni Culleton, Electrical, will study Education at Merrimack College
• Diamond Johnson, Health Assisting, will study Early Childhood Education at Lesley University
• Alexa Kepple, Early Childhood Education, will study Elementary Education at Merrimack College
• Moxie Lonks, Early Childhood Education, will study Elementary Education Moderate Disabilities at Salt Lake Community College
• Victoria Moreno, Early Childhood Education, will study Elementary Education Moderate Disabilities at Merrimack College
• Micayla Neville, Early Childhood Education, will study Elementary Education at North Shore Community College
• Valentine Romero-Portillo, Early Childhood Education, will study Mathematics & Math Education at Boston University
• Gabriella Shea, Cosmetology, will study Elementary Education at Coastal Carolina University