Elementary Education Program

Associate of Science Degree (A.S.)
Bachelors of Science (B.S.)

Program Description

The Elementary Education Program was developed in response to
a need for Native American representation in public schools locally
and nationally. Associate Degree Graduates are prepared to work as
paraprofessionals in public school districts or continue on to receive
a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.

Degree Objectives

Upon completion of the Associate of Science degree, students will demonstrate entry level skills, dispositions and knowledge in relationship to the following principles:

1. Making content meaningful
   The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students.
2. Child development and learning theory
   The teacher understands how children learn and develop and can provide learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social, and personal development.
3. Learning styles/diversity
   The teacher understands how students differ in their approaches to learning and creates instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.
4. Instructional strategies/problem solving
   The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students’ development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills.
5. Motivation and behavior
   The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagements in learning, and self-motivation.
6. Communication/knowledge
   The teacher uses knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom.
7. Planning for instruction
   The teacher plans instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community, and curriculum goals.
8. Assessment
   The teacher understands and uses formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social, and physical development of the learner.
9. Professional growth/reflection
   The teacher is a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of his or her choices and actions on others (students, parents, and other professionals in the learning community) and who actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
10. Interpersonal relationships
    The teacher fosters relationships with school colleagues, parents, and agencies in the larger community to support students’ learning and well being

Requirements

* Students must receive a “C” or better in all required courses while maintaining an overall grade point average of 2.0 to graduate.
* Students must submit to a federal background check for this program.

Cindy O’ Dell
Education
Department Head
B.S., University of Oregon
M.S., Montana State University

Email: cindy_odell@skc.edu
Phone:

Location:

Mathias Building