Montreat College

In the first two years, students pursuing elementary education licensure take one education course each semester. During this time, the focus is on completing most of the general education core requirements and assisting transfer students to have a smooth transition.

Both fall and spring semesters focus on reading and math methods course content. Because these content areas are integral in elementary education, the first half of the content is taught in the fall semester and continued in the spring semester. Social studies and science methods courses are divided between the two semesters: social studies in the fall semester, and science in the spring semester.

This is our program’s Professional Year and includes a year-long placement. Student Teaching I in the fall semester consists of a half-day placement in the elementary classroom with additional relevant coursework. Student Teaching II in the spring semester continues the fall placement for a full day in the classroom with a seminar to provide additional support for edTPA and portfolio development.

The Elementary Education Program includes 300 hours of clinical experience prior to your student teaching. Many of those hours are completed in partnership with local, high needs schools where students provide assistance to classroom teachers. In addition, the professional year follows the co-teaching model developed by St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota, based on Marilyn Friend's work in special education.

All methods coursework at Montreat College addresses the needs of the evolving student population. This includes preparation in working with English Language Learners, students that have challenges learning, and students struggling with trauma in their lives.

The Professional Year follows the co-teaching model developed by St. Cloud State University. Students are required to be "off their seat and on their feet" while co-planning and co-teaching with their cooperating teacher. This hands-on mentoring strengthens a candidate’s confidence in their own abilities to manage student learning and increases student achievement.

The Montreat College Teacher Education Program is an active member of state and national associations that focus on preparing effective teachers. In addition, the program partners with local high needs schools to provide assistance, training, and support for teachers and leaders on the front lines of engaging students in learning.