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The Department of Teacher Education develops Urban Professional Multicultural Educators through a comprehensive curriculum combining coursework and hands-on field training. Our programs are tailored to equip aspiring educators with the necessary skills. The curriculum focuses on achieving 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 educational collaborations provides real-world teaching opportunities. Graduates evaluate their professional growth against our core principles by compiling comprehensive teaching portfolios. These foundational values encompass: dedication to equity in education, transformative teaching approaches, and meaningful educational reform grounded in Vincentian principles that respect individual worth.
Beyond meeting Illinois licensure standards, and consistent with our mission to cultivate globally-minded educators, candidates will also fulfill requirements for the International Baccalaureate Organization's Teaching and Learning certificate. The IB Certificate for the Middle Years Program (MYP) and Diploma Program (DP) equips future educators with specialized knowledge for IB schools. This additional certification broadens career prospects for teacher candidates while enhancing their understanding of inquiry-based learning and professional reflection.