From RHS Student to Orchard Librarian, CTE Programs Make the Difference

Makenzie Howes has always known she wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, she was fortunate to have some amazing teachers who she looked up to as role models. Watching them creatively find ways to turn difficult subjects into fun lessons made a lasting impression on her.

As a junior at Richland High School, Mrs. Howes learned from a friend about the school’s Careers in Education CTE program. She jumped at the chance to dip her toes into the world of teaching.

“I quickly realized I was blissfully unaware to everything that went into teaching,” said Mrs. Howes. “I was able to be a part of so much, from parent-teacher conferences to teaching my own lesson; my eyes were opened.”

Despite the hard work, her Careers in Education internship solidified the fact she wanted to be a teacher.

“I can’t recommend the program enough,” said Mrs. Howes. “The best way to learn how to be a teacher is through experience. Not many 17-year-old’s can say they taught their own lesson in a classroom!”

After graduating from Washington State University, Mrs. Howes returned to the Tri-Cities looking to find a classroom to call her own. She eventually landed back in the Richland School District at Orchard Elementary School. However, instead of teaching a classroom of 30 students, she works with a whole school of children as the librarian.

Mrs. Howes finds joy helping students discover their passion to read. She spends time searching for the perfect book that will connect with her students’ interests. She also loves when its book fair time–which brings back plenty of nostalgia and childhood memories.

When asked what she loves most about her job Mrs. Howes responded, “I love being able to make a positive impact and interact with every student in the school. I want the library to be a safe space for students to come to–a place where everyone feels comfortable and accepted.”