Campus Connection

UWL's Milwaukee Urban Experiences program helps students, educators thrive

Student teaching is often the most transformative experience in an education major’s college career — putting lessons taught in the classroom to work in a real-life setting, while having an experienced educator as a mentor. 

The collaboration between the UW-La Crosse and the Notre Dame School of Milwaukee has become a model for meaningful professional development, enriching the teaching and learning experience for educators, student teachers and students alike.  

Angie From, a seventh and eighth grade math and religion teacher at Notre Dame, has mentored several UWL student teachers. For From, these connections often extend beyond the classroom.

“I really enjoy building relationships with UWL students,” From says. “I still keep in touch with many of them, and it’s rewarding to see how they grow as educators.” 

Notre Dame benefits significantly from the partnership. From explains that UWL student teachers provide her with additional support and fresh perspectives, allowing her to focus on instructional planning while also fostering the development of future teachers. 

“Having student teachers assist with grading and correcting assignments is a win-win,” From says. “It helps them familiarize themselves with the students — their strengths and areas of struggle — while giving me more time to focus on lesson planning. It’s also a practical way for them to start understanding the balance required in a teaching career.”  

For Notre Dame students, the presence of UWL student teachers means more personalized support and expanded educational opportunities.  

“The students benefit from having another person in their corner. UWL student teachers bring new energy and ideas to the classroom,” From explains. This support is particularly valuable in her station-based learning model, in which extra educators enhance the depth of instruction.  

The partnership also helps seasoned educators like From stay sharp and innovative.  

“Mentoring student teachers gives me fresh ideas and techniques that are being taught today,” From says. “They often introduce me to new technologies and methods that keep my teaching relevant and effective.”  

From also highlights the professionalism and preparedness of UWL student teachers.  

“UWL student teachers have always stood out,” From says. “They come in well-prepared, approach student teaching with enthusiasm and consistently do an outstanding job.”  

Each student teacher brings unique strengths to the classroom, From says, from being fluent in another language to designing engaging activities or leveraging sports to connect with students.  

By combining the expertise of experienced educators with the fresh perspectives of aspiring teachers, UWL and Notre Dame are cultivating a dynamic learning environment that prepares students and teachers for success.