College among first in state to offer teachers new program
Monday, August 27, 2001
Lacey, Wash. - As early as this fall, teachers may begin enrolling in
courses at Saint Martin's College to receive their professional
certification.
The college's board of trustees recently approved the addition of the
professional certification program to the education division, making the
college one of the first in the area to offer the state-required
program.
The proposal for the program came in response to the State Board of
Education and Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction requirement
for the revised second level teacher certificate. The state of
Washington is the only known state to put into law that teacher
performance will be judged by his/her impact on student learning.
The program includes two new courses and will utilize all other
graduate level education courses currently offered. The program will
include a certification-only program as well as a master's of education
program.
Saint Martin's currently graduates about 3 percent of the state's
teacher supply per year. The state-wide need for professional
certification programs will involve more than 9,000 teachers per year
within the next five years.
Saint Martin's College is a four-year Roman Catholic, coeducational
college. It offers liberal arts-based programs leading to associate's,
bachelor's and master's degrees at its main campus near Olympia as well
as its Fort Lewis Army Post and McChord Air Force Base extension
campuses. The education division offers majors in elementary and
secondary education as well as minors in physical education, technology
education, education, reading and special education. Teaching
certificate programs are offered in initial elementary education and
initial secondary education. Founded in 1895 by the Catholic Benedictine
Order, the college stresses educational excellence, community,
hospitality and a commitment to service.
For more information:
Christina Ramírez-Milhoan, communications specialist
Saint Martin's College Office of Communication 360-438-4541 or
cramirez@stmartin.edu