07/30/2026
Two AHSTW teachers expanded their learning beyond the classroom this summer through the Iowa STEM Teacher Externship Program!
The Iowa STEM Teacher Externship Program connects K-12 educators with local businesses and organizations for six weeks, providing hands-on workplace experiences that help bridge classroom instruction with real-world career skills. These experiences strengthen career-connected learning and give teachers new ideas and industry knowledge to bring back to their students.
Amy Parker, Intermediate Science Teacher, completed her externship with Pottawattamie Conservation at Botna Bend Park in Hancock, Iowa. She assisted with invasive species management by helping establish grazing areas for goats used in targeted vegetation control. Amy also researched and designed interpretive signs highlighting the park's natural and cultural resources, including prairie ecosystems, bison, elk, and Native American history. Her experience strengthened her understanding of conservation management, environmental interpretation, and outdoor education while creating educational resources that will enhance student learning and appreciation for Iowa's natural heritage.
Clint Sargent, High School Business Teacher, completed his externship with the Harrison County Historical Village & Welcome Center in Missouri Valley. During the experience, he digitized and organized historical artifact records dating back to the museum's founding, scanned and preserved important documents, improved digital archives, and helped implement a new point-of-sale system through retail inventory organization. His work strengthened record accessibility, enhanced inventory management, and helped preserve Harrison County's history for future generations while providing valuable experience in technology integration, research, data management, and nonprofit operations.
We are proud of Amy and Clint for investing in professional learning that directly benefits our students. By bringing authentic workplace experiences back to the classroom, they are helping prepare AHSTW students with the knowledge, skills, and career connections needed for future success.