What do you get when you mix a future teacher, current student, a spirited mascot and a proud Newman alumna? A whole lot of Jet pride and young readers buzzing with excitement.
In early March, Newman University senior Allie Johnson and Newman mascot Johnny Jet visited OK Elementary School’s reading camp. There, they met with second- and third-grade students as well as two teachers with ties to Newman.
Connecting Jets across generations
Johnson, an elementary education major and member of Newman’s cheer and dance team, was invited by her coach to participate in the camp, which focuses on engaging students in meaningful reading activities during the school day.
“As a proud member of Newman University and the cheer and dance team, I recognize the importance of connecting with the community,” said Johnson. “As a future educator, I felt compelled to get involved, as it allowed me to engage with local students and contribute to the Wichita community.”
But the visit turned into more than just a day of fun and reading. Johnson had the chance to connect with Newman Jets who are now educators at OK Elementary: Chantel Boulds, a 2016 graduate, and Annette Paronto, a current Newman student working toward her ESOL endorsement.
“It was so fun seeing things come full circle,” said Boulds, who now teaches second grade after eight years in special education. “Allie was great with our students. She was very energetic and answered all their questions about Newman.”
Inspiring the next generation of Jets
During the visit, Johnson read aloud to about 50-60 students, pausing for interactive questions and discussions about camping experiences. She also participated in a Q&A session about college life and what it’s like to be a Newman Jet.
“The students were thoroughly amazed by the presence of Johnny Jet,” she said. “They were excited to meet him, especially when they had the chance to stand next to him. The most enjoyable moment for them was watching him dance, which they found to be a highlight of the visit.”
The enthusiasm was mutual; Johnson shared that inspiring young students reminded her of her own childhood dreams.
“I specifically recall looking up to college dancers, as I had always dreamed of dancing at the collegiate level,” she said. “Being able to inspire younger students and show them that their dreams are achievable through hard work, both in academics and extracurriculars, was a rewarding and impactful experience.”
Teachers reflect on Newman’s lasting impact
Boulds and Paronto both spoke highly of their time at Newman University. Originally from Dodge City, Boulds credits her professors with preparing her well for the classroom.
“Newman had the best professors. They provided incredible instruction and feedback,” Boulds said. “My ‘why’ is to provide a safe and welcoming classroom for all students to be able to reach their highest potential.”
Paronto, who teaches third grade at OK Elementary, is still actively learning through her Newman education.
“I think that the classes I’m currently taking have helped me prepare reading and language strategies to meet the needs of all my students,” Paronto said. “I loved having the Newman students take part in the reading camp. Educators learning and collaborating together for the benefit of the students make meaningful experiences for them.”
A full-circle moment
Perhaps one of the most memorable parts of the day came as a surprise to Johnson when she reunited with a student she had worked with during her student teaching semester.
“A student I had worked with had transferred to a different school in the final month of my student teaching, and I didn’t have the chance to say goodbye,” Johnson shared. “It was a heartwarming experience to see her again and witness her progress.”
With her teaching career beginning this fall, Johnson left the reading camp more inspired than ever.
“My primary goal as a future educator is to serve as a positive role model for my students,” she said. “I truly believe that every student has a unique purpose, and I look forward to contributing to their growth and helping them realize their potential.”
As for Johnny Jet? He may have had a slight costume hiccup, but with some quick thinking and a helpful staff member donning a Jet shirt, the show went on — and the young readers left with big smiles and new dreams of their own.
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