The Elementary Education major is a State of Maine approved program that is comprised of liberal studies, education methodology, and a continuum of field experiences.  One semester of student teaching is required for teacher certification, but not for graduation.    Students are required to provide their own transportation to all education placements.  Carpooling can be arranged.  Elementary Education students must maintain a “C” (73) in all courses required for the major.  All methods courses must be completed prior to student teaching.

The primary goal of the Education Department is the preparation of competent teachers.  The program operates on the premise that theory becomes internalized when learned in context and applied.  This objective is possible because of early, sequential, and extensive field experiences.  Sophomores complete a semester practicum.  As juniors, students complete a full year of internship followed by student teaching in their senior year.

Students complete a “concentration” in English, math, science, or history.  This 24 hour concentration leads to “highly qualified”  status for certification in a subject area in addition to being “highly qualified” in Elementary Education.

Students need to pass the Praxis series (I and II), which is required for state certification in elementary and secondary education.  All students in education programs must pass Praxis I prior to senior student teaching.