Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (Lamoni)

Graceland's Elementary Education Degree program is noted for excellence in providing a technology emphasis, psychological and sociological foundations, and learning theory. Beginning in the sophomore year, coursework is balanced by extensive field experiences in both public and private schools. Candidates also have the option of international student teaching placements.

Entry to Teacher Education

In order to be accepted into the Teacher Education program, students must

• Submit an application to the Teacher Education program,
• Complete and submit a graduation plan
• Earn and maintain a minimum Graceland University GPA of 2.75
• Earn a grade of “C” or higher in all education courses
• Successful completion of EDUC1300 Introduction to Education OR an approved Introduction to Education and EDUC1410 Clinical Experience Lab
• Submit and disclose revoked or suspended education-related licenses (e.g. para-educator, coaching, etc.) and/or any criminal convictions
• Undergo periodic state background checks
• Submit three professional/faculty references (two of which must come from GSOE faculty)

Students must apply and be accepted by the school of education separately from applying to and being accepted to Graceland University. This process happens after students begin taking on-campus coursework in education and will receive on-campus guidance through the application process.

Student Teaching

Student Teaching is the capstone clinical field experience during which time students take what they have learned in the classroom and apply it to a real-world school setting such as a high school or elementary school. Student teaching is 70 consecutive days long. During this experience in an accredited school classroom, students will gradually assume full-time teaching duties under the supervision of the cooperating (classroom) teacher and the university supervisor.

Student candidates who want to be part of Student Teaching must complete the following requirements prior to March 1 of the year before the date student teaching is to begin. Applicants must

• Be admitted to the Teacher Education Program,
• Complete required Education courses with e-portfolio assessed,
• Maintain a 2.75 cumulative GPA,
• Earn a “C” or higher grade in all required Education classes,
• Complete a successful practicum or internship,
• Remove incomplete grades in required Education courses or other courses. If completion of an incomplete grade is pending, submit a plan for completion before participation in student teaching.

Teacher Licensure

At the close of their final semester, students normally apply to the state for licensure. Teaching certificates are then issued by Iowa to applicants who meet these requirements:

• A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or higher and “C” or higher grades in all education courses
• Specific program completion with a “Pass” grade for student teaching
• Completion of program surveys and assessments
• Successful completion of e-portfolio
• A university recommendation.

When planning to teach in a state other than Iowa, students will plan their programs in accordance with the requirements of the other state. They will in turn be recommended by the university for those certificates for which they qualify.