Department of Elementary Education and Childhood Studies

How can I become involved?

Hilary — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 17:02:09 +0000

The PSU motto “Ut prosim” (“That I may serve”) is alive and well in our department. You will find many ways to be involved in the department, the university, and the community beyond. You can join the PSU chapter of ASCD and travel to state, regional or national conferences, or participate in their campus and community service efforts. You can participate in service learning trips and study abroad or you can work or volunteer at many local agencies. These activities are part of what creates our close-knit and committed learning community.

PSU Honors Business Leader Wally Stevens and MBA Graduates at Annual Luncheon

Michael — Fri, 27 May 2011 13:01:34 +0000

PSU Honored by Grafton County Economic Development Council

Michael — Fri, 27 May 2011 12:59:05 +0000

PSU Names Students to Fall 2010 Dean’s List

Michael — Fri, 27 May 2011 12:51:56 +0000

PSU Names Students to Fall 2010 President’s List

Michael — Fri, 27 May 2011 12:50:24 +0000

Will I automatically be certified as a public school teacher if I major in Elementary Education?

Bridget — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:43:36 +0000

Students who wish to earn certification through the State of New Hampshire and NCATE must successfully complete all requirements for the degree, including student teaching. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.50 is required for admission into Teacher Education candidacy, and candidates are required to have a 2.70 grade point average to student teach. Students must successfully complete the Praxis 1 and 2 professional skills tests.

Will I be able to teach in a public school outside New Hampshire if I earn my certification?

Bridget — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:42:41 +0000

New Hampshire is a member of the Interstate Certification Contract. Students who wish to earn certification in another state must apply to that state’s department of education in order for their certification to be transferable.

What other jobs, besides teaching, are available to Elementary Education graduates?

Bridget — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:41:49 +0000

Childhood Studies graduates often work as parks and recreation administrators, school/family liaisons, children’s museum educational programmers, community program service providers/administrators, classroom assistants and family support providers. Students who major in Elementary Education but choose not to teach in a traditional classroom often pursue career paths similar to those of Childhood Studies majors.

What if I want to teach high school?

Bridget — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:41:09 +0000

Elementary Education majors are not eligible for certification to teach high school. To be qualified to teach high school students must earn a major in their field of study, then complete a student teaching experience. Students who wish to teach high school science, math, English, social studies or other subjects can earn teacher certification through the Office of Teacher Certification (OTC). Certification programs are also offered in art, music, health and physical education.

Should I complete a minor in another subject?

Bridget — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:40:43 +0000

We encourage Childhood Studies students to select a minor that complements the major in achieving career goals. Suggested minors are listed in the Academic Catalog (pages 114-115). Elementary Education majors who wish to teach middle school must meet the requirements in the content area they have chosen to become Highly Qualified under No Child Left Behind. We recommend that students who wish to teach middle school complete a minor in their chosen area (e.g., math, English, social science, science).