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The Department of Teacher Education develops Urban Professional Multicultural Educators through a comprehensive curriculum combining coursework and hands-on field experiences. Our programs are tailored to equip aspiring educators with the necessary skills and knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes teaching excellence in modern diverse classrooms by exploring key educational challenges, examining student learning processes and effective instructional methods, and incorporating technology in education. We encourage continuous self-assessment among teacher candidates as they progress through the program. Our network of Partnership Schools and collaborative relationships with educational institutions provides valuable practical experience. Graduates evaluate their professional growth against our core principles by compiling comprehensive portfolios. These foundational values encompass: dedication to social equity, transformative teaching approaches, and meaningful educational reform grounded in Vincentian principles that respect individual worth.
Beyond meeting Illinois licensure standards, and consistent with our focus on global education, candidates will fulfill requirements for the International Baccalaureate Organization's Teaching and Learning certificate. The IB Certificate for both the Middle Years Program (MYP) and Diploma Program (DP) equips educators with specialized knowledge for IB school environments. This additional certification broadens career prospects for future teachers while deepening their understanding of inquiry-based learning and reflective teaching methodologies.