Elementary Education Professional Program

Department of Elementary Education, Woodring College of Education

104-106 credits

Introduction

This program centers an anti-bias, anti-racist, social justice philosophy and leads to a recommendation to the state of Washington for a teaching certificate with an Elementary Education endorsement. Students seeking a bachelor’s degree with teacher certification and an endorsement in elementary education must complete the GURs, an approved academic major, and the professional education course work listed below.

Why Consider an Elementary Education Professional Program?

Elementary teachers have a unique opportunity to make a difference in their communities by laying the foundation for both future academic learning and for future participation in democratic society. By helping students learn how to learn, develop problem-solving capacities, cultivate stamina, and learn the value of practice, they set the stage for successful life-long learning. By introducing students to key understandings and inquiry processes of subject matter disciplines, they set the stage for deeper learning through subsequent schooling. By helping students learn to appreciate each other, value their differences, and collaborate successfully, they help build healthy, sustainable, globally interconnected communities for tomorrow. By doing all of these things, they help address existing inequities and promote the well-being of our society.

Contact Information

Department Chair Marilyn Chu Miller Hall 3015A 360-650-2737 Marilyn.Chu@wwu.edu	Department Manager Talisa Manker Miller Hall 301D 360-650-7948 Talisa.Manker@wwu.edu
Program Director Steph Strachan Miller Hall 315A 360-650-3980 strachs@wwu.edu

Sample Careers

Elementary school teacher | middle school teacher with additional endorsements

Major/Career Resources

www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

See the Elementary Education  section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.

Grade Requirements

Students must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in the elementary education professional program and in all courses required for the endorsement.