The major in Secondary Education prepares students to become professional teachers for both public and private schools in specific subject areas covering 5th through 12th grades. Aspiring teachers study the liberal arts, faith, cultures, moral education, educa­tional foundations, psychology, assessment, learning theory and pedagogy, and instructional methods for various subjects—social studies, English/language arts, ELL, health and fitness, biology, mathematics, theatre arts, or music. During one semester, students demonstrate their teaching skills in public or private school classrooms, leading to formal certification by the State of Washington.

Teaching Certificate Endorsements

Secondary education majors earn endorsements in specific subjects: Biology or Mathematics (grades 5-12), as well as supporting endorsements in Middle-level Science or Middle-level Mathematics (grades 4-9).

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 demon­strated 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.