We’ve recently been spotlighting some of the incredible K-12 educators we have had the privilege of working with. These are energetic, forward-thinking, and fun individuals who have implemented the Tallo platform in their schools, districts, and counties.
Nickie Daves is a health science teacher who encourages her students to utilize Tallo to help gain access to scholarships and internship opportunities. Let’s check out what she has to say!
Nickie Daves, RN, CCRN
Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center
York School District
York, South Carolina
How did you get into education? What drew you to the profession?
I am actually a registered nurse, by trade. For Health Science, a healthcare professional is requested to teach the course. Being a nurse involves educating patients on a daily basis. I found that I really enjoyed that portion and knew that I would one day transition into education. I love seeing the light bulb going off and being able to help the learner take charge of the information that they learn. I never thought I would teach students in the secondary field, but I love it very much.
What is your favorite thing about education?
I enjoy working with the next generation of healthcare professionals. I love building the relationships with the students which will continue on in future courses. Â
Tell us about your school!
I work for York School District One in the Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center. Our technology center and high school are together within the same building, which decreases many barriers that would exist if the two sections were not comprehensive. A student can leave their English class and then go straight to a building & construction class.
How is Tallo helping/will help your school or district?
It’s a wonderful asset offered to the students in the way of scholarship opportunities, internships, and showcasing their accomplishments. All sophomores and juniors are exposed to Tallo and create an account. They are encouraged to keep their accounts up-to-date and utilize them to highlight themselves for post-secondary opportunities.
Any neat stories so far?
Students are always so excited to let the staff know that certain schools have viewed their account or that they have been offered internships!
How did you implement Tallo? Are there any suggestions you would have for  other schools on how to best implement Tallo?
I teach courses within the Health Science cluster, which are classified as elective courses. Despite this, I always encourage my students to complete community service projects, continue to build their resumes, and to search constantly for scholarships. Our community has a poverty rate of over 70%, so it is imperative that students have the ability to attend schools once they are accepted. I give numerous assignments for the students to submit proof of scholarships completions to me. Most of the students go through Tallo to do so.
What is your favorite part of the system?
The ability to export all of my profile data into a ready-to-use resume.
What is the future impact that Tallo will have on your school or district?
I believe its social media-like functionality will keep it relevant with the current generation who will soon be entering the workforce. During my advisory meetings – which include healthcare members within my community – I have recommended that their companies utilize Tallo to help reduce the impact of the impending nursing shortage.
