Future early childhood and elementary teachers at California University of Pennsylvania will earn the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Integrative STEM Education Endorsement, an in-demand credential that documents their ability to incorporate science, technology, engineering and math concepts into classroom learning activities.
Beginning in fall 2018, students who successfully complete Cal U’s bachelor’s degree program in grades pre-K to 4 education will graduate with a bachelor’s degree and Level I Pennsylvania teaching certification, plus the STEM Education Endorsement.
Students in the undergraduate special education certification program for grades pre-K to 4 also earn the STEM endorsement.
Cal U is one of the only Pennsylvania universities to include all requirements for the endorsement in its standard teacher preparation curriculum.
“Future pre-kindergarten or elementary school teachers who study at Cal U don’t need to fit additional courses into their schedule or go on to graduate school to obtain this endorsement,” says assistant professor Dr. Diane Fine, of California’s Childhood Education Department.
“In keeping with Cal U’s special mission in science and technology, all students who are preparing to teach young children will complete the coursework and field experiences required for the STEM credential as part of their regular studies.
“This does more than save our students time and money – it gives them a competitive edge in the job market. Many school districts place a premium on teachers who are proficient in STEM subjects and can integrate important STEM concepts into their lessons.”
In its description of the endorsement, the state Education Department states its intention to prepare the Pennsylvania’s children “to thrive in an increasingly technological world and to solve challenges … in key areas such as energy, environmental conservation, and health care.”
California has been preparing teachers and educational leaders for transformative careers since 1852. In addition to elementary education, Cal U offers undergraduate degrees in nine secondary education areas, as well as Master of Education degrees for practicing teachers, including an M.Ed. in STEM Education; Master of Arts Teaching (MAT) degrees for those wishing to enter the field; and a variety of certificate and certification programs. See all of Cal U’s education programs at calu.edu/academics.