Beyond the Classroom: Taylor Campbell
In a classroom filled with excitement, Taylor Campbell is finding her passion. Through her placement at the YMCA’s Early Learning Center in Auburn, the Community Experience Program student at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES is gaining practical experience while building confidence that will help shape her future.
Campbell has been working at the YMCA’s Early Learning Center since the start of the school year. To prepare for the role, she completed fingerprinting and a required assessment before stepping into the classroom.
“I help the children, play with them, and assist with their math,” Campbell said.
Twice a week, she works in a universal prekindergarten classroom, supporting students during lunch, reinforcing lessons on shapes and numbers and participating in carpet time activities.
Dan Ritz, lead universal prekindergarten teacher at the YMCA, has worked with Campbell for the past several months and said her presence has made a positive impact.
“Having Taylor on the team has been a great experience,” Ritz said. “The children really enjoy seeing her come in and help out.”
Campbell said one of the most meaningful lessons she has learned during her placement is to “take pride in myself.”
“By being around the kids and getting to know them better, I gain confidence in myself,” she said.
Ritz said Campbell has demonstrated a strong drive to learn and a commitment to doing things correctly.
“She has grown significantly since I first met her, and her confidence and skills in the classroom have continued to improve,” he said.
According to Ritz, partnerships with the Community Experience Program benefit both students and staff.
“They provide additional support in the classroom while giving students valuable, hands-on experience,” he said. “This kind of partnership benefits both staff and children and supports the development of future educators.”
After completing the Community Experience Program, Campbell plans to enter the workforce.
“I plan to work at Starbucks, and hopefully one day make drinks,” she said.
Through her work at the Early Learning Center, Campbell is gaining more than experience: she is discovering her strengths and building a foundation for her future.