ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ

The Secondary Education program utilizes high-impact practices to prepare future educators for the dynamic and diverse classrooms of tomorrow. Secondary Education students engage in immersive experiences like student teaching, which allow them to apply theory in real-world settings. These experiences foster a deep understanding of effective teaching strategies. The Secondary Education program ensures that graduates leave not only with a degree but with the confidence and skills to inspire and lead students in grades 9-12.

• Design and evaluate equitable, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive learning environments that cultivate belonging, collaboration, and safety for all students.   
• Synthesize and apply research-based and asset-oriented instruction strategies to plan, differentiate, and adapt learning experiences that meet the needs of diverse learners. 
• Generate and analyze multiple forms of assessment data to make informed instructional decisions, monitor student progress, and promote equitable learning outcomes.
• Construct and sustain collaborative partnerships with families, colleagues, and community members to strengthen inclusive learning communities and advocate for student success.
• Critically reflect on teaching practices, professional growth, and ethical responsibilities to advance equity, social justice, and continuous improvement.   
• Facilitate and empower student voices, agency, and inquiry by designing authentic learning experiences. 
• Create and integrate culturally responsive learning opportunities that prepare students to contribute thoughtfully and compassionately to an interconnected world.
• Create theory-informed educational experiences informed by the history of education, not as a practice of the past but as a clearer understanding of the present and the possible futures of education.
• Justify and articulate educational choices within the deep global tradition of the philosophy of education.

At the undergraduate level, ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ is one of the seven largest providers of teachers in Illinois. ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ's Education Division has a long and successful history of preparing students for careers in teaching with a curriculum that guides teacher candidates to become scholars, lifelong learners, leaders, and reflective practitioners. Rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy, our mission emphasizes compassion, service, and social justice. As a student in our Education Division, you'll be inspired to integrate these values into your teaching practice, making a meaningful impact on your students and community. You'll learn to educate with empathy, advocate for equity, and lead with a heart committed to service.

ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ offers a variety of education endorsements designed to expand the expertise of teacher candidates and practicing educators. Among these are endorsements in Special Education and English as a Second Language (ESL), which require 18 credit hours to complete.