Teaching Rooted in Dominican Heritage
Featured in TAPinto Camden, Emely Cuevas Alcantara shares how her journey from the Dominican Republic to Rutgers–Camden shaped the teacher she’s becoming. Written and photographed by Janel “Jaycee” Miller, “Camden Student Teacher Proudly Discusses How Hispanic Heritage Helped Shape Her Career Goals” follows Cuevas Alcantara, now pursuing her Teacher Education (MAT) degree, as she draws on her Afro-Latina heritage and bilingual background to connect with young learners in Camden classrooms.
The article brings readers into her clinical placement at Mastery Cramer Hill, where she helps kindergartners build confidence through reading and conversation. It also highlights her work through the Camden Education Fund’s Teacher Pipeline, which pairs aspiring educators with mentors and real classroom experience in city schools—support that’s helping her deepen both her practice and her commitment to the community.
“I like how they can open up to me and trust me,” Cuevas Alcantara told TAPinto Camden. “That’s something very important, because that’s how they learn.” Miller’s story—and her accompanying photo—capture that sense of purpose and connection. (Photo credit: TAPinto Camden / Janel “Jaycee” Miller) Read the full article, “Camden Student Teacher Proudly Discusses How Hispanic Heritage Helped Shape Her Career Goals,” on TAPinto Camden
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Empower Your Teaching Journey with Rutgers–Camden’s M.A.T. Program
At Rutgers University–Camden, the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) program equips aspiring and current educators with a robust foundation in pedagogy, classroom methodologies, and educational theory. Aligned with New Jersey Department of Education standards, the program offers hands-on experience through year-long placements in local schools, ensuring practical learning. With concentrations in Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education, the M.A.T. program prepares educators to effectively teach diverse subjects across various grade levels. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of educational practices, diversity’s role in the classroom, and professional responsibilities, ready to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
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