Studying educational theory does not prepare students to teach any more than studying a car manual prepares them to drive. And yet they should not be put behind the wheel alone before they are ready. One of the reasons our teacher certification candidates are so successful is the supervised field experience they receive even before they begin student teaching. 

As part of their professional development training, our students go out to local schools and teach classes under the supervision of an Education Department faculty member who critiques their performance and provides valuable feedback. This experience not only improves the preservice educators' understanding of instructional methods, curriculum selection and teaching, but also prepares them for the reality of managing a modern classroom. 

Because of the comprehensive nature of their training, students who complete one of St. Mary's teacher certification programs are prepared to pursue successful careers in education.