The undergraduate teacher education programs at the University of Maine are fully
accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. 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 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 school field experience
with children or adolescents, documentation of technological competence, an essay
reflecting upon an educational topic 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. Accordingly, if and
when the state passes the PRAXIS II exam, it will become a part of our college
program and students will need to pass it successfully to be recommended for state
certification. Students continue to work on their portfolios over the next two
years, and they become major documentation of their professional development as
teachers. For more information about the PRAXIS exam, visit www.umaine.edu/ois/examhelp.htm.
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
semester, a prelude to 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.
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.
Elementary Concentrations (24 credits) include: art, Canadian studies, disability
studies, English, environmental education, French, German, history, honors, human
development, international affairs, mathematics, music, Native American studies,
natural sciences, peace studies, performing arts, philosophy, psychology, social
sciences, Spanish, and women’s studies.
Students must meet teacher candidacy requirements prior to the third year.
The University of Maine The University of Maine
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