Teachers play an important role in the lives of students as they help navigate educational experiences. Elementary school teachers, in grades 1-6, are tasked with introducing young students to the educational environment and helping them establish healthy academic behaviors. Be prepared to spend your time reinforcing these behaviors on a daily, and sometimes hourly, basis. The digital native students you’ll be teaching provide ample opportunity to incorporate new technology into your curriculum.
Elementary Education
Why a degree in Elementary Education from Missouri Valley?
We believe that you build knowledge through meaningful interactions rather than acquiring facts. We’ve developed our program around this theory and we teach you how to incorporate this principle into your own teaching practice. Major elements of our program include field experiences within schools and classrooms, in-class discussions, individual unit/lesson planning and assessment development. We emphasize the use of technology in the classroom and model the use of Smartboards, presentation software, digital data projectors and more. Our faculty have years of experience in classrooms and in administrative roles in school districts throughout the U.S. Our program is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The teacher education programs are approved by the Missouri State Board of Education.
Career Possibilities
- Teacher/Professor
- Curriculum Development
- Education Technology Coordinator
Graduate Program Possibilities
- Education
Programs
Degree in Elementary Education
The elementary education major will prepare you to apply theory to the teaching situation, be cognizant of the dynamics of the classroom, and have available various teaching strategies for a wide range of learning situations. You are required to earn a certification in one of the following areas; Early Childhood, Early Childhood Special Education or Cross Categorical Special Education (K-12).
Early Childhood Education Certification
This certification is designed for students interested in working with young children. You’ll study developmental theories of learning, educational models, family perspectives and the influences of community resources on children and families.
Early Childhood Special Education Certification
Courses in this certification focus on readings and field experience in educational settings for children with developmental learning needs. You’ll learn to develop education plans tailored to individual student and family needs.
Cross Categorical Special Education (K-12) Certification
A cross categorical special education certification permits you to teach children, in grades K-12, who have developmental or physical learning needs. Students interested in special education must complete certification requirements in elementary education (1-6) or a secondary area (7-12, 9-12) before certification in special education is possible.
Admissions & Scholarships
Ready to apply? Get started now by reviewing our admissions process and explore financial aid options.
Faculty
Dr. Earl Wellborn
Professor of Education
Professor of Education
Peggy Sherman
Associate Professor of Education
Dr. Pam Riggs
Associate Professor of Education
Dr. Lisa Rice
Associate Professor
Dean
Dean
