Pearson Ranch Middle School theatre teacher Grant Wilson turned his summer externship into a full-circle learning experience for his students. Through Round Rock ISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher Externship Program, Wilson spent time at Penfold Theatre Company in Round Rock, where he learned directly from industry professionals.
During his 20-hour externship, Wilson participated in the production process for several shows, including sitting in on auditions for Rosita y Conchita and helping construct the set for Anton Chekhov is a Tasty Snack.
“The goal was to give him time working with professionals who could help him build his skills and network,” said Ryan Crowder, producing artistic director at Penfold Theatre. “It was an absolute delight having Grant and his students in to enjoy one of the productions he himself had worked on.”
Earlier this month, Wilson returned to Penfold Theatre with his students to attend Rosita y Conchita, a perfect connection between classroom learning and professional theatre.
“These middle school students are at a perfect age to see theatre for young audiences,” Wilson said. “They enjoyed the performance but could also analyze its technical design and choreography. Since Pearson Ranch celebrates Día de los Muertos as a campus event, this was a perfect cross-curricular tie-in.”
According to Peggy Mica, assistant director of CTE, the experience embodies the externship program’s goals.
“It’s everything we dream for with this program, with the teacher, business partner, and students learning together through real-world application,” Mica said.
The experience embodied the externship program’s goals while highlighting how Round Rock ISD supports real-world learning opportunities for students and teachers.