A Career in Education - Alternative Certification Program

Mission Statement

Helping Public Schools Create Life Long Learners.

A Career in Education provides program courses that are curriculum based in the areas of EC-4, 4-8, and 8-12, to include Supplements in Bilingual EC-4/4-8 and Special Education (All level). Our courses are designed to prepare a candidate to be an effective classroom teacher. The vision of A Career in Education is for the teacher candidate to study and understand various aspects of the teaching discipline and then to translate and implement this knowledge into actual classroom practice. This knowledge will empower the teacher to address the various learning styles which challenge today�s students.

Course Descriptions

Classroom Management
Curriculum & Instruction
Reading & Mathematics Strategies
Bilingual Education
Special Education

Course Components

The following are the critical components that are included in each of our courses:

Learning Modalities
Use of Manipulatives
Higher Order Thinking Skills
Pedagogy & Professional Responsibilities
Philosophy of Education
TEKS & TAKS Instructional Strategies

Assignments

Many of the instructors are currently employed classroom teachers, administrators or central office staff. The instructors will provide candidates with hands on learning to receive the most benefit for success in the classroom. Candidates will submit assignments in a timely fashion as requested prior to completion of the courses.

Welcome Letter

To: Candidates

From: Christina Gutierrez; Program Director

Welcome to A Career in Education � ACP. We look forward to working with you throughout your certification process. With hard work and determination you will be part of the educational component, helping to facilitate the learning experiences of the children of San Antonio and the State of Texas.

This course is designed specifically to provide you with the understanding of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills; Designing Instruction and Assessment to Promote Student Learning; Creating a Positive, Productive Classroom Environment; Implementing Effective, Responsive Instruction and Assessment; & Fulfilling Professional Roles and Responsibilities.

Every child in the State of Texas must have a basic understanding of the TEKS in order to be successful in the classroom. Therefore it is imperative that Texas Teachers understand the principles associated with the TEKS, as well as, have an understanding of how to implement the TEKS into their instruction.

In addition, you will learn the fundamentals of classroom management. Without a properly managed classroom your students will not be engaged in the learning process. The key to success is to insure all students are actively participating. In order to achieve success you must first understand that all students have the potential to be successful. Your job as a teacher is to find and expand that potential. This can only be done by understanding the prior knowledge of each of your students. As each child�s experiences are different, so to are their learning styles. As an educator you must facilitate your teaching style to be conducive with tactual, kinesthetic, auditory and visual learners.

I look forward to working with you during your experience with A Career in Education � ACP.

State Board for Educator Certification �
Approved

No Child Left Behind - NCLB � Compliant