2011-2012 Interns

Internship Overview

Clapham School offers a unique opportunity through its Internship Training Program for persons interested in learning about our pedagogy and teaching at our school. Because of our philosophical blend of classical, Christian, and "joyful discovery" education, teachers new to our school find that adjustments must be made in their teaching style, methods of classroom management, and the way they think about learning. We have discovered that teachers with advanced training in our philosophy and pedagogy, who are provided with opportunities to observe and "shadow" our lead teachers, as well as practice teach, are better able to enter a Clapham classroom as a full-time teacher with the tools and skills we require to become a confident and successful teacher.

The program consists of readings and discussion on classical education and the educational philosophy of 19th-century educator Charlotte Mason; classroom observations and feedback across the grades; concentrated time in the classroom of the participants' grade level of interest; and practical application of such skills as lesson planning techniques, maintaining the classroom atmosphere, recognizing inspiring ideas in a text, developing pertinent and applicable student response activities, and training in habit. The trainees also participate as needed in the day-to-day routines of the school community, as well as weekly staff meetings, building a sense of unity and continuity within the school.

Isaac Pletcher
Intern

Isaac graduated with a B.A. in Literature/Film from Biola Universty in Los Angeles, an M.A. in Shakespeare from the University of Birmingham in England, and an M.F.A. in Communication and Film from Regent University in Virginia Beach. Most recently Isaac taught at Asbury University in Kentucky. Isaac joined the intern program in 2011.

Chad Elwell
Intern

Chad received his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering and worked in that field for three years before receiving his teacher certification and master’s degree from National-Louis University. He has taught high school math and science in La Grange, Illinois, as well as at an international school in Vienna, Austria. Chad joined the intern program in 2011.

Terri Johnston
Class Two Teacher

Terri holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Judson University and a M.A. from St. Xavier University. She has over twenty years of experience which includes teaching preschool, elementary school, and home schooling. Terri joins us in the fall of 2011.

Erin Qualiato
Administration Support

Erin Qualiato graduated from The University Honors Program at Northern Illinois University with a B.A. in Communications and a minor in Art. She has her Elementary Education teaching certificate from Roosevelt University and both student taught and aided in the Wheaton public school district upon graduating. She has a passion for mission work and spends time volunteering at College Church. Erin has been with Clapham since 2011.