Seven students from WSHS are preparing to pursue careers in teaching

Future Educators Honored in Winona Education Association Ceremony

In a heartwarming ceremony on Wednesday afternoon, the Winona Education Association celebrated seven aspiring educators from the Class of 2024 in their annual Aspiring Educators Signing Day.

The seven students, who are set to pursue careers in education, were recognized for their dedication and commitment to shaping the future of the teaching profession. The future teachers include Nyle Abdel-Magid, Trinity Bolssen, Ike Erdmanczyk, Avrielle Menton, Nick Schultz, Hazen Stangl, and Riley Wilken.

During the ceremony, WEA Co-President Dheadra Wang hosted the event, while Scott Halverson, the 2023-24 WEA Teacher of the Year, delivered an inspirational message. Halverson shared the wisdom of retiring counselor Karen Whitney-Thrune, who emphasized the importance of choosing a career that brings joy and fulfillment.

Each student shared their motivations for entering the field of education. Abdel-Magid was inspired by his parents, Bolssen by her work at Head Start Preschool, Erdmanczyk by his aunt and uncle, Menton by her family of educators, Schultz by his parents, Stangl by his band directors, and Wilken by her experience in her mother’s classroom.

The ceremony highlighted the impact that teachers have on students’ lives and the importance of choosing a career that brings fulfillment and joy. Graduation for these future educators is set for Friday, June 7, marking the beginning of their journey towards shaping the minds of the next generation.