Introduction to Teacher Education Handbook
Welcome to Teacher Education At Eastern Mennonite University
The mission of the EMU Teacher Education Program is to prepare competent, caring, reflective practitioners who advocate for children and youth, develop caring learning environments, initiate and respond creatively to change, value service to others, and teach boldly in a changing world through an ethic of care and critical reflection.
The teacher education program subscribes to a Reflective Teaching Model informed by constructivist and critical reflective theorists and grounded in the principles and values of Restorative Justice in Education (RJE). Preservice teachers will have the opportunity to develop as educators through active learning, as they reflect upon their values, beliefs, knowledge, thoughts, and actions. They should expect to be challenged to examine their assumptions about teaching and learning as they participate in an environment of inquiry and collaboration.
Teachers have the capacity to help shape the future, not only the future of the students they teach, but the future of our society as well. They serve as models of relational health and curiosity, pursuers of justice and peace, and leaders in their communities.. For this reason, each teacher needs to develop a positive self-concept, uphold the dignity of others, and believe in the mutual interdependence of people.
Teacher education at Eastern Mennonite University offers the opportunity to change and grow. Teacher education faculty members believe that the effectiveness of a teacher is about character, identity, values, and commitments – not simply knowledge or skills. Preparation for teaching is dynamic and life-long. As teacher educators, we are seeking to model this journey of openness and continuous growth, both personally and professionally.
We welcome you to walk with us on this journey. As you have questions and concerns, many of which will not be addressed in this handbook, please feel free to stop by the education program office. We anticipate a rewarding journey ahead!
Sincerely,
Kathy Evans, PhD.
Director of Undergraduate Teacher Eduction
What is the Purpose of the Handbook?
This handbook provides guidance for the teacher education program at EMU. Blank copies of curriculum outlines and 4-year plans are available on myEMU. Records of academic progress are maintained by the registrar’s office and are accessible to students and advisors on myEMU. It is the mutual responsibility of preservice teachers and their advisor to plan their academic program.
This handbook also provides a conceptual framework for teacher education at EMU and is organized so that teacher candidates can quickly identify the important procedures and policies, which govern EMU's Teacher Education Program.
The teacher education program is located on the second floor of the Campus Center. The telephone number is (540) 432-4142.
The primary education classrooms (CC 201 and CC 203) are located on the south end of second floor, of the Campus Center and are adjacent to the teacher education program offices. The Computer Lab (CC 234) is also located on the second floor, and is available 24/7 with a scanner and printer. These rooms are available for teacher education students to work on projects. Additional space is available in the Curriculum Materials Center in the lower level of Hartzler Library.
Teacher education students are welcome to stop by the education program office for clarification of any information, especially in the area of licensure requirements.