Education Department

The Education Department is committed to providing prospective teachers with a broad-based, liberal arts-oriented education as well as the highest quality of disciplinary preparation in the content area fields and teaching methodology. Unique features of the professional education program include early supervised field experiences usually beginning in the sophomore year, strong mentoring efforts by faculty and staff, and the development of area school partnerships through advisory committees and school division contacts.

Admission to the Professional Education Program

The professional education programs at Virginia Wesleyan College are periodically reviewed by the State Department of Education and have been designated by the State Board of Education as state approved. Students seeking teacher certification must formally apply for admission to the Professional Education Program.

Application packets are available in the Teacher Education office.

Students will be admitted to the Professional Education Program when they have met the following requirements:

1. Earn and maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 overall.
2. Earn passing scores (as established by the Virginia Department of Education) on Praxis I. SAT/ACT scores may be accepted in lieu of Praxis I. A passing score on both the VCLA and the Math portion only of the Praxis I may also be accepted in lieu of Praxis I. Contact the Education Department for details.
3. Submit to the Education Department an application, an essay, and two (2) recommendations.

   Write a one-page, single-spaced essay (choose one topic below)

   1. What kind of teacher do I want to become?
      In your opinion, what personal characteristics are absolutely essential for an individual to become a successful teacher?
   2. Describe your major strengths and weaknesses and how they might impact your ability to become an effective teacher.
4. Achieve a grade of C or better in all professional education courses.

Students will not be able to continue with education coursework beyond INST 202, INST 203, and EDUC 225 until the above requirements are met. Transfer students will not be able to continue with education courses beyond the first semester of attendance until the above requirements are met.

Students will not be eligible to register for or participate in student teaching until they have been:

• Admitted to the Professional Education Program
• Completed all required course work
• Passed the Praxis II (subject area assessment) exam

Student Virginia Education Association (SVEA)

If you are interested in joining the SVEA contact the group sponsor Dr. Sullivan.

The Chalk Board

The Education Department newsletter, The Chalk Board, is published each Fall and Spring semester.

• The Chalk Board Spring 2011 No. 23
• The Chalk Board Fall 2010 No. 22