In an effort to spread the word to prospective teachers about the many rewards of teaching at an independent school, Blair has instituted two new on-campus programs: a three-week “Winternship” for competitively selected college students and a daylong Faculty Open House. Both programs will take place in January 2019 and offer participants a firsthand look at living and working in Blair’s welcoming and diverse community.

The Winternship is a uniquely Blair program that will bring Davidson College senior Bri’ana Odom and Lafayette College junior Emily Dentinger to campus during their winter breaks. Selected from more than a dozen applicants, Bri’ana and Emily will live with faculty members and experience every facet of Blair life, from academics and athletics to student life and professional development. Assistant Head of School and Dean of Faculty Lorry Perry is looking forward to the many ways in which they will contribute to the community as they assist teachers in class, help coach a team or run an activity, or just talk to students about life in college.

“I hope this opportunity helps Bri’ana and Emily begin to see themselves as boarding school teachers, especially once they experience all that’s involved,” Ms. Perry said. “As we continue the Winternship program in the coming years, I’d love to develop a pipeline of college students who know about boarding school teaching as a career option and who are enthusiastic about entering this very rewarding field.”

Blair’s upcoming Faculty Open House is another opportunity for prospective teachers to learn more about the boarding school experience. The event takes place on Saturday, January 19, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes a tour of the School’s historic campus, class visits, student and faculty panel discussions, and lunch in the Romano Dining Hall. College students, day school and public school teachers, and those who might be considering a career change are encouraged to attend. Preregistration is required; click here to register.