Our Philosophy

The Early Childhood Education Program Education is committed to the exploration of all of the components of being an early childhood professional. In other words, teaching is not just a profession; it is a way of life. Our mission is to guide candidates in exploring curriculum, assessment, teaching pedagogies, policies, expectations, research, relationships, practices, and resources that will support them in designing their teaching lives in ways that are sustainable and promote equity. We believe that teaching and learning are iterative processes that occur throughout people’s lifetime. We also believe that teaching and learning happen most fruitfully when connections are made, cultures are drawn upon, relationships are grounded in accountability, and revision becomes a way of life. 

As instructors, we are dedicated to supporting teacher professionals who are prepared to meet diverse children’s and families’ needs utilizing innovative and responsive teaching methodologies. We understand that this craft of being an early childhood educator happens by spending time in multiple environments, learning from mistakes, building on areas of strength and weakness, and collaborating with a plethora of stakeholders. Additionally, we concern ourselves with the mental, social, emotional, and physical aspects of teaching and learning. Our methodologies are hands-on, equity focused, and centered around problem solving, critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, creativity, joy and reciprocity.

Perhaps most important, we seek to create a program where students will gain skills necessary to juggle multiple life commitments and teaching commitments. We purposefully designed this program in ways that addresses the reality that no child waits for us to be ready to teach. They need teachers who are fully present and prepared each day, regardless of what is going on in their personal lives and at home. This holistic vision for developing teacher professionalism is crucial to future teaching success and therefore fundamental to what you will be supported and asked to do in the program. Our methodologies are hands on, equity focused, and centered around problem solving, critical thinking, inquiry based learning, creativity, joy and reciprocity.