Elementary Education

The college’s educator preparation programs emphasize a diverse liberal arts background and highly relevant professional training. The undergraduate teacher education programs are fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and approved by the State of Maine. Students graduate from our programs and enter the teaching profession with experience, an authentic view of schools, and an understanding that teaching, learning, and professional development are lifetime endeavors.

Students preparing to be elementary teachers spend the first two years building solid liberal arts background, technological competencies and subject area concentrations. They are also guided in the examination of public school classrooms and other settings that provide educational and related service to children and youth.

In their second year of study students apply for teacher candidacy by submitting a portfolio (efolio) that includes a transcript of their academic work to date which reflects a grade point average of at least 2.5, an analysis of one field experience in a K-8 classroom, and documentation of passing the state required PRAXIS I examination. NOTE: As a State of Maine approved program, we will adhere to state certification requirements and adapt our program to meet changing state regulations.  For example, students are now required to pass PRAXIS II prior to student teaching.  For more information about the state required PRAXIS exam, visit http://www.umaine.edu/edhd/academic-programs/praxis-test-series/. 

Students accepted to teacher candidacy at the end of their second year become immersed in the daily life and issues of public school during an intensive Education curriculum, a prelude to student teaching. During student teaching, future teachers learn and teach along with veteran teachers and get involved in many efforts to address the needs of students and schools.

Elementary Concentrations (24 credits) include: art, Canadian studies, disability studies, English, environmental education, French, German, history and social sciences, honors, human development, international affairs, liberal arts, life and physical sciences, mathematics, music, Native American studies, peace studies, performing arts, philosophy, psychology, Spanish, and women’s studies.