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The Department of Teacher Education develops Urban Professional Multicultural Educators by combining coursework with hands-on field experiences. Our programs are tailored to equip aspiring educators with the skills they need. The curriculum focuses on achieving teaching excellence in diverse modern classrooms by exploring key educational topics, examining student learning and effective instructional methods, and incorporating technology in education. We encourage continuous self-assessment among teacher candidates as they progress through the program. Through our Partnership Schools and collaborations with educational institutions, we promote active involvement in school communities. Graduates evaluate their growth by creating professional portfolios that reflect the principles of our core framework. These principles emphasize social justice, transformative teaching approaches, and meaningful educational change, all grounded in Vincentian values that respect individual worth.
Beyond meeting Illinois licensure standards, our program aligns with global education goals by enabling teacher candidates to earn an International Baccalaureate Teaching and Learning Certificate. This IB certification for the Middle Years Program (MYP) and Diploma Program (DP) equips educators with specialized knowledge for IB schools. The IB Teaching and Learning Certificate broadens career prospects for teacher candidates while deepening their understanding of inquiry-based and reflective teaching practices.