The Future of Early Childhood Education: A Profile of Sophie Davis

By: Halle Hess

Davis working with a literacy small group.

There are many adventures that take place in a kindergarten classroom each day, both expected and unexpected. Jenks senior Sophie Davis is an aspiring early childhood educator and is currently interning for Laura Winsworth, a Jenks Southeast kindergarten teacher.

Internships are a great way for seniors at Jenks High School to gain hands-on experience in whatever career field they are interested in. Winsworth details that she has had several interns over the years who have gone on to become early childhood educators, but she has never had the opportunity to work with a Jenks High School Senior until this year. 

“Having Sophie in the classroom with me this year has been the biggest blessing to me,” says Winsworth. “It is truly like having another teacher in the classroom and she always manages to bring an extra spark and energy.”

Students working in table groups.

Davis first realized she had a passion for working with kids when she was volunteering at Life Church.

 “I have always loved kids but my time spent with the 5 and 6 year olds at Life Church is what sparked my interest in early childhood education. I had other friends who had previously interned at an elementary school, so when I had that same opportunity, I jumped at the chance to work in a classroom setting and experience what my future job could look like,” says Davis.

Davis’s love for kids and ability to understand how to work with them and how they operate are just a few of the things that interest her about a career in early childhood education. 

“I think one of my strong suits is that I am good at feeding off of the kids' energy. If they’re having a great day and want someone to celebrate with, that’s what I’m there for. If they’re having a hard day and need a little extra encouragement, I am there for that too,” says Davis.

Davis helping students work the computers.

Davis has her internship first thing in the morning, so she spends 3 days a week at Southeast from 9 to 10:30. A typical day for Davis includes observing Winsworth’s teaching styles and mannerisms. She helps with literacy groups and assists with teacher preparations and gathering materials to prepare for the week ahead. 

One of the best parts of the internship has been the relationships she has been able to establish between her and the kids. Davis says that nothing makes her happier than when the kids approach her after football games or other events. 

Davis and a student hugging after completing a word problem.

“The kids in my classroom absolutely adore Sophie,” says Winsworth. “We have had to implement a silent wave and air hug whenever she leaves our classroom because they all have so much affection to give to her.”

Internships are a great way to set you up for future success in a profession that interests you. To learn more about all the internships available to you, contact torry.nunnalee@jenksps.org.