JET celebrates the end of the 2022-2023 school year with Dr. Liza Talusan

Scholars, mentors, district liaisons, and JET staff came together to celebrate the end of a very busy and productive school year on June 21. 

The event began with a “This or That” summer edition icebreaker. Participants shared, among other things, their favorite ice cream flavors, and if they’d rather come face-to-face with a bear or a shark. 

Attendees then heard from a panel of two scholars who spoke about their experiences with the JET program. Post-grad Paula Correia shared about her new position as a 5th grade teacher and her upcoming masters degree program, which she will begin this fall. Post-grad and masters degree candidate Sadiya Burdette emphasized the large support role that her mentor has played throughout her experience with JET. A heartfelt conversation ensued with words of support and encouragement being offered to current JET undergraduates. 

Following the panel, Recruitment and Onboarding Coordinator Romie Robertson relayed the profile for the incoming class of JET scholar applicants. Of note is the record-breaking number of applications received- 95!

Finally, the EOY celebration ended with an hour-long workshop from Dr. Liza Talusan, UMass Boston professor and author of The Identity-Conscious Educator. Through whole-group spaces as well as break-out rooms, attendees were asked to reflect on their levels of motivation and comfort with topics and actions connected with identity consciousness and race. Dr. Talusan is a dynamic speaker, and participants expressed gratitude for her energy and presentation.

And with that, our final gathering of the 2022-2023 school year comes to a close. A special “thank you” to our scholar panel, Dr. Talusan, and all participants. We look forward to seeing everyone at our next whole-group meeting in the fall!