Welcome to the second edition of the Baker Teacher Leader Newsletter. In this issue, we are excited to spotlight one of our outstanding program tracks: the Social, Emotional, Behavioral Mental Health (SEBMH) track.
Overview of the Social, Emotional, Behavioral Mental Health (SEBMH) Track
The SEBMH track is designed to provide pre-service teachers with foundational knowledge and skill development in social, emotional, and behavioral mental health. This track supports deeper understanding of educational belonging and excellence by building skills across five interconnected competencies: self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness.
More information is available to TEP students (log-in required).
Student Experience with the SEBMH Track
John Aschenbrenner is currently student teaching and has recently completed the requirements of the SEBMH track. We asked him to share more about why he chose the track and what he gained from the experience.
Aschenbrenner explained that he chose the SEBMH track because he believes it’s one of the most important—and often underrepresented—aspects of being a successful teacher or professional working with children. Through the Teacher Education Program at Iowa, Aschenbrenner had numerous opportunities to work with a wide range of students in diverse settings. Reflecting on his experience, he shared:
"This track not only gave me the opportunity to learn how to support students in the classroom every day, but it also allowed me to see a different side of the school experience by volunteering alongside an amazing school counselor."
Speaking specifically about that volunteer opportunity, Aschenbrenner described the experience as “amazing.” He shadowed a school counselor in the Iowa City Community School District and recalled a particularly memorable moment:
“I worked with a student who was very young and going through their first real experience in a school setting. I was able to witness their development and build a meaningful connection with them.”
From this, Aschenbrenner gained a deeper appreciation for the power of relationships in education.
Now, as a student teacher, Aschenbrenner emphasizes that he draws on what he learned in the SEBMH track every single day. He shared:
“I’ve been able to come up with new ideas for activities and lessons that students have genuinely enjoyed. It’s helped me build a stronger, more positive classroom environment.”
When asked if he had advice for other students considering the SEBMH track, Aschenbrenner didn’t hesitate:
“It will be one of the best decisions you make. The amount of information you gain—from the experience and the many workshops—is invaluable. I truly believe that any educator who wants to make a real difference for their students, not just academically, should consider this track.”
Thank you for the enthusiastic endorsement and for sharing your powerful experiences!
Teacher Education Program Graduate Spotlight: Elizabeth Johnson
In each newsletter, we spotlight one of our amazing TEP graduates—and we're kicking things off with Elizabeth Johnson.
Johnson graduated in spring 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and endorsements in Reading and English as a Second Language. She currently teaches Kindergarten at Norman Borlaug Elementary School.
Johnson completed the SEBMH Track—known as the SEL Track at the time. We asked her how she incorporates what she learned through the Teacher Leader Certificate into her teaching. She shared:
“The volunteering and professional learning I engaged in through the SEL track taught me to teach the whole child. I learned that children cannot thrive academically without their social, emotional, and behavioral needs being met as well. I continue to approach situations from an SEL lens in my classroom each day. I teach my students strategies to identify their emotions, regulate their bodies, and solve problems. I am grateful the SEL track gave me a head start on this important aspect of teaching.”
We also asked Johnson to share a fun fact about herself—she told us she loves to travel! Most recently, her adventures have taken her to Thailand and Paris, France.
We love celebrating our TEP graduates and all the amazing work they’re doing!
Want to Learn More About the SEBMH Track?
If you're interested in diving deeper, check out our Introduction to the Social, Emotional, Behavioral Mental Health (SEBMH) track workshop! It's completely asynchronous—so you can participate anytime, from anywhere. Register for the workshop.
Good Luck on Finals - You've Got This!
As finals approach, we’re wishing you focus, confidence, and a strong finish to the semester. If you have any questions about the Teacher Leader Certificate over the summer, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help!
We also hope you find time this summer to relax and recharge. You’ve earned it. We’re so proud of our TEP students and graduates, and we can’t wait to see the continued impact you’ll make in your classrooms and communities.
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For more information about the Baker Teacher Leader Center, please visit our website.