The major in Elementary Education prepares students to become professional teachers for both public and private schools from kindergarten through the 8th grade. Aspiring teachers study the liberal arts, faith and culture, educational foundations, psychology, assessment, learning theory and pedagogy, and instructional methods for the varied subjects required for elementary teaching: reading, mathematics, visual arts, drama, language arts, science, health and fitness, social studies, and music. During two semesters, students demonstrate their teaching skills in public or private school classrooms, leading to formal certification by the State of Washington.

Teaching Certificate Endorsements and Academic Subject Area

Elementary Education majors earn the endorsement for kindergarten through 8th grade, as well as endorsements in either Special Education (SPED) or English Language Learner (ELL). SPED and ELL candidates may teach in any K-12 classroom.

Professional Standards and Performance Assessment

Within the context of educational restructuring and accountability for learning results, the performance of each candidate is evaluated in multiple ways over time. Assessment of candidate performance focuses on demon-strated competency in both knowledge and teaching skill, which employs varied strategies to measure professional knowledge, subject matter mastery, and teaching effectiveness. Measures include written examination, oral communication, classroom management, curricular and instructional design, practice teaching, projects and portfolios, written expression, visual and musical arts, and the success of children in field settings.