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What are some good colleges for elementary education majors, as well as extracurricular activities I can do for that major as a high schooler?
Please help!! I definitely don't want to go to an ivy league. I'm looking for a school primarily in the South and will be financially stable for me and my family! Also please share your experience as elementary educators!
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Jerry’s Answer
The three answers above have a wealth of information. In my opinion, I would pay particular attention to Michelle's answer. But for all three: there is a great deal to be gained through all sorts of activities that normally are right there at the high school and then beyond.
As for the "right" school? The ones listed above, in my opinion, are well known. There are colleges and universities everywhere that have an eduction program. And most elementary teachers did not go to any of those listed. And yet they are successful at developing elementary education teachers. In my opinion. But you can do the research.
One of the things I would suggest would be to visit some elementary schools. And how far do you have to walk in NYC? Just walk in the door. Introduce yourself and explain your interest in elementary teaching. With a bit of luck (and practice at introducing yourself) you may get the chance to talk to an elementary teacher. If you're good at conversing, it just may happen that you would be invited into a class to observe. But come prepared before you walk in the door to ask the right questions as well as simply introducing yourself. And go to more than one school. Mix them up. Public. Private. Religious. (I know of two in my neighborhood. Both elementary. Both private. Both with no religious connection.) But there are also public elementary schools about my neighborhood. I know they are there as if I'm up and about at 8:00 when their parents are taking them to school or at 3:00 when they are leaving. Of course the older ones navigate by themselves. You probably will not get much satisfaction from many of the schools. But... Sooner or later.
And then there's the extra curricular activities provided by your high school. Plus volunteering to work with elementary students. Reading and math is a major concern these days. Or just talking to kids. You can learn a lot. And where you live? How many opportunities are there?
This all will take a good deal of effort. But if you are serious, take the time. Fill your mind with elementary school age children. And of course you once were the same. Spend even more time writing down what you remember from your days in elementary school. The good, the bad and the ugly. Favorite teachers. Why? Were they just "nice" or did you really learn? And what was wrong with the teachers that didn't meet your or your fellow students' "standards". (You didn't "luck out" with me having been asked to answer your query. I remember so much about my elementary school. 35th Street School. The teachers. The classes. The things we learned. The other kids. I remember so much of all of it. And I have no idea what college or university they went to.) With hard work and a good education and meaningful extracurricular experiences may you teach at a school with other good teachers and your students will remember you for decades to come. If you're not willing to put in the effort, why bother? But by you just asking the question... Just maybe you are.
You have quite a bit of work to do.
As for the "right" school? The ones listed above, in my opinion, are well known. There are colleges and universities everywhere that have an eduction program. And most elementary teachers did not go to any of those listed. And yet they are successful at developing elementary education teachers. In my opinion. But you can do the research.
One of the things I would suggest would be to visit some elementary schools. And how far do you have to walk in NYC? Just walk in the door. Introduce yourself and explain your interest in elementary teaching. With a bit of luck (and practice at introducing yourself) you may get the chance to talk to an elementary teacher. If you're good at conversing, it just may happen that you would be invited into a class to observe. But come prepared before you walk in the door to ask the right questions as well as simply introducing yourself. And go to more than one school. Mix them up. Public. Private. Religious. (I know of two in my neighborhood. Both elementary. Both private. Both with no religious connection.) But there are also public elementary schools about my neighborhood. I know they are there as if I'm up and about at 8:00 when their parents are taking them to school or at 3:00 when they are leaving. Of course the older ones navigate by themselves. You probably will not get much satisfaction from many of the schools. But... Sooner or later.
And then there's the extra curricular activities provided by your high school. Plus volunteering to work with elementary students. Reading and math is a major concern these days. Or just talking to kids. You can learn a lot. And where you live? How many opportunities are there?
This all will take a good deal of effort. But if you are serious, take the time. Fill your mind with elementary school age children. And of course you once were the same. Spend even more time writing down what you remember from your days in elementary school. The good, the bad and the ugly. Favorite teachers. Why? Were they just "nice" or did you really learn? And what was wrong with the teachers that didn't meet your or your fellow students' "standards". (You didn't "luck out" with me having been asked to answer your query. I remember so much about my elementary school. 35th Street School. The teachers. The classes. The things we learned. The other kids. I remember so much of all of it. And I have no idea what college or university they went to.) With hard work and a good education and meaningful extracurricular experiences may you teach at a school with other good teachers and your students will remember you for decades to come. If you're not willing to put in the effort, why bother? But by you just asking the question... Just maybe you are.
You have quite a bit of work to do.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
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Answers
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James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Emily!
Good Colleges for Elementary Education Majors in the South
When considering colleges for an elementary education major, especially in the Southern United States, there are several institutions that stand out due to their strong education programs, supportive environments, and financial stability options. Here are some notable colleges:
University of Florida (UF) - Located in Gainesville, UF offers a highly regarded College of Education with various undergraduate programs in elementary education. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through fieldwork and student teaching.
Florida State University (FSU) - FSU’s College of Education provides a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring elementary educators. The university has a strong focus on research and community engagement, which can enhance your educational experience.
University of Georgia (UGA) - UGA’s College of Education is known for its commitment to preparing teachers through innovative teaching practices and extensive field experiences. The program also offers opportunities for involvement in local schools.
Auburn University - Auburn’s College of Education offers a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program includes extensive field placements and community service projects.
Texas A&M University - Texas A&M has a well-respected College of Education and Human Development that prepares students for careers in elementary education through rigorous coursework and practical experiences.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) - While not exclusively Southern, UNC is known for its strong teacher preparation programs and commitment to diversity and inclusion within education.
Kennesaw State University - Kennesaw State offers an affordable pathway to becoming an elementary educator with a focus on practical teaching skills and community involvement.
University of Alabama - This university provides a solid foundation in elementary education with opportunities for internships and collaborative learning experiences.
Clemson University - Clemson’s College of Education emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage directly with children through various educational settings.
Louisiana State University (LSU) - LSU offers a comprehensive program focused on developing effective teaching strategies tailored to diverse classrooms.
Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Interested in Elementary Education
Engaging in extracurricular activities during high school can significantly enhance your college application while also providing valuable experience related to elementary education:
Volunteer Tutoring or Mentoring: Seek opportunities to tutor younger students or mentor peers; this will provide firsthand experience working with children and understanding their learning needs.
Join Educational Clubs: Participate in clubs such as Future Educators Association or similar organizations that focus on teaching and educational leadership.
Community Service Projects: Get involved in community service initiatives that work with children, such as after-school programs or summer camps; this demonstrates your commitment to education and community engagement.
Internships or Job Shadowing: Look for internships at local schools or educational organizations where you can observe teachers and learn about classroom management techniques.
Participate in Drama or Arts Programs: Engaging in drama or arts can help develop skills like creativity, communication, and public speaking—essential traits for effective educators.
Attend Workshops or Conferences: Participate in workshops related to child development, teaching strategies, or educational technology; these experiences can provide insights into current trends in education.
Leadership Roles: Take on leadership roles within school clubs or sports teams; this helps build skills necessary for managing a classroom environment effectively.
Educational Research Projects: If possible, conduct research projects related to education topics that interest you; this could involve studying different teaching methods or child psychology principles.
By focusing on these colleges and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, you will be well-prepared both academically and practically for pursuing a career as an elementary educator.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report: Provides rankings and detailed information about colleges across the United States based on various criteria including academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, etc.
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE): Offers accreditation information regarding teacher preparation programs ensuring quality standards are met by institutions.
College Board: A comprehensive resource offering information about college admissions processes, financial aid options, scholarships available specifically for education majors among other resources relevant to prospective students.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Good Colleges for Elementary Education Majors in the South
When considering colleges for an elementary education major, especially in the Southern United States, there are several institutions that stand out due to their strong education programs, supportive environments, and financial stability options. Here are some notable colleges:
University of Florida (UF) - Located in Gainesville, UF offers a highly regarded College of Education with various undergraduate programs in elementary education. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through fieldwork and student teaching.
Florida State University (FSU) - FSU’s College of Education provides a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring elementary educators. The university has a strong focus on research and community engagement, which can enhance your educational experience.
University of Georgia (UGA) - UGA’s College of Education is known for its commitment to preparing teachers through innovative teaching practices and extensive field experiences. The program also offers opportunities for involvement in local schools.
Auburn University - Auburn’s College of Education offers a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program includes extensive field placements and community service projects.
Texas A&M University - Texas A&M has a well-respected College of Education and Human Development that prepares students for careers in elementary education through rigorous coursework and practical experiences.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) - While not exclusively Southern, UNC is known for its strong teacher preparation programs and commitment to diversity and inclusion within education.
Kennesaw State University - Kennesaw State offers an affordable pathway to becoming an elementary educator with a focus on practical teaching skills and community involvement.
University of Alabama - This university provides a solid foundation in elementary education with opportunities for internships and collaborative learning experiences.
Clemson University - Clemson’s College of Education emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage directly with children through various educational settings.
Louisiana State University (LSU) - LSU offers a comprehensive program focused on developing effective teaching strategies tailored to diverse classrooms.
Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Interested in Elementary Education
Engaging in extracurricular activities during high school can significantly enhance your college application while also providing valuable experience related to elementary education:
Volunteer Tutoring or Mentoring: Seek opportunities to tutor younger students or mentor peers; this will provide firsthand experience working with children and understanding their learning needs.
Join Educational Clubs: Participate in clubs such as Future Educators Association or similar organizations that focus on teaching and educational leadership.
Community Service Projects: Get involved in community service initiatives that work with children, such as after-school programs or summer camps; this demonstrates your commitment to education and community engagement.
Internships or Job Shadowing: Look for internships at local schools or educational organizations where you can observe teachers and learn about classroom management techniques.
Participate in Drama or Arts Programs: Engaging in drama or arts can help develop skills like creativity, communication, and public speaking—essential traits for effective educators.
Attend Workshops or Conferences: Participate in workshops related to child development, teaching strategies, or educational technology; these experiences can provide insights into current trends in education.
Leadership Roles: Take on leadership roles within school clubs or sports teams; this helps build skills necessary for managing a classroom environment effectively.
Educational Research Projects: If possible, conduct research projects related to education topics that interest you; this could involve studying different teaching methods or child psychology principles.
By focusing on these colleges and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, you will be well-prepared both academically and practically for pursuing a career as an elementary educator.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report: Provides rankings and detailed information about colleges across the United States based on various criteria including academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, etc.
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE): Offers accreditation information regarding teacher preparation programs ensuring quality standards are met by institutions.
College Board: A comprehensive resource offering information about college admissions processes, financial aid options, scholarships available specifically for education majors among other resources relevant to prospective students.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello!
Here’s a guide to help you find suitable colleges for an Elementary Education major in the South, along with extracurricular activities you can consider during high school.
Here are some reputable colleges in the southern United States known for their Elementary Education programs:
University of Florida (UF)
Location: Gainesville, FL
Known for: Strong education programs and research opportunities.
Florida State University (FSU)
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Known for: Emphasis on hands-on teaching experiences and community engagement.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
Location: Chapel Hill, NC
Known for: Quality educator training and diverse program options.
Auburn University
Location: Auburn, AL
Known for: Comprehensive education curriculum and supportive faculty.
The University of Alabama
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Known for: Strong reputation for teacher education and student support services.
Georgia State University
Location: Atlanta, GA
Known for: Focus on urban education and diverse classroom experiences.
Clemson University
Location: Clemson, SC
Known for: Strong education programs with a focus on experiential learning.
University of Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, TN
Known for: Comprehensive teacher training and commitment to community service.
Texas A&M University
Location: College Station, TX
Known for: Diverse teacher education programs and research opportunities.
Samford University
Location: Birmingham, AL
Known for: Strong Christian values integrated into education.
Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Majoring in Elementary Education
Volunteer at Local Schools or Daycare Centers:
Offer your time to assist teachers, help with after-school programs, or tutor younger students.
Join Education or Teaching Clubs:
Participate in clubs like Future Educators of America (FEA) or any relevant student organizations focused on teaching and education.
Peer Tutoring:
Get involved in peer tutoring programs at school to help classmates with subjects you excel in.
Participate in Community Service:
Engage in community projects focused on education, such as organizing reading programs or advocating for educational equity.
Engage in Arts and Crafts:
Join art clubs or take classes in the visual arts, music, or theater to develop creative skills that are beneficial in teaching.
Become a Camp Counselor:
Work as a counselor for summer camps, where you can gain experience managing children and leading activities.
Attend Workshops or Conferences:
Participate in workshops related to education, child development, or teaching methods to expand your knowledge and connect with educators.
Join Debate or Public Speaking Clubs:
Develop communication skills essential for teaching by joining debate clubs or speech competitions.
Explore Leadership Opportunities:
Take on leadership roles in school clubs or student government, helping you develop collaboration and organizational skills.
Consider applying to colleges that align with your academic interests and financial capacity. Engage in extracurricular activities that allow you to gain practical experience in education and develop skills that will benefit you as you pursue a major in Elementary Education.
As for experiences from elementary school teachers, they often highlight the joy of making a positive impact in children's lives, fostering a love for learning, and witnessing students achieve their milestones. It can be a rewarding career filled with challenges but also immense satisfaction. Good luck with your future endeavors in education!
Here’s a guide to help you find suitable colleges for an Elementary Education major in the South, along with extracurricular activities you can consider during high school.
Here are some reputable colleges in the southern United States known for their Elementary Education programs:
University of Florida (UF)
Location: Gainesville, FL
Known for: Strong education programs and research opportunities.
Florida State University (FSU)
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Known for: Emphasis on hands-on teaching experiences and community engagement.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
Location: Chapel Hill, NC
Known for: Quality educator training and diverse program options.
Auburn University
Location: Auburn, AL
Known for: Comprehensive education curriculum and supportive faculty.
The University of Alabama
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Known for: Strong reputation for teacher education and student support services.
Georgia State University
Location: Atlanta, GA
Known for: Focus on urban education and diverse classroom experiences.
Clemson University
Location: Clemson, SC
Known for: Strong education programs with a focus on experiential learning.
University of Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, TN
Known for: Comprehensive teacher training and commitment to community service.
Texas A&M University
Location: College Station, TX
Known for: Diverse teacher education programs and research opportunities.
Samford University
Location: Birmingham, AL
Known for: Strong Christian values integrated into education.
Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Majoring in Elementary Education
Volunteer at Local Schools or Daycare Centers:
Offer your time to assist teachers, help with after-school programs, or tutor younger students.
Join Education or Teaching Clubs:
Participate in clubs like Future Educators of America (FEA) or any relevant student organizations focused on teaching and education.
Peer Tutoring:
Get involved in peer tutoring programs at school to help classmates with subjects you excel in.
Participate in Community Service:
Engage in community projects focused on education, such as organizing reading programs or advocating for educational equity.
Engage in Arts and Crafts:
Join art clubs or take classes in the visual arts, music, or theater to develop creative skills that are beneficial in teaching.
Become a Camp Counselor:
Work as a counselor for summer camps, where you can gain experience managing children and leading activities.
Attend Workshops or Conferences:
Participate in workshops related to education, child development, or teaching methods to expand your knowledge and connect with educators.
Join Debate or Public Speaking Clubs:
Develop communication skills essential for teaching by joining debate clubs or speech competitions.
Explore Leadership Opportunities:
Take on leadership roles in school clubs or student government, helping you develop collaboration and organizational skills.
Consider applying to colleges that align with your academic interests and financial capacity. Engage in extracurricular activities that allow you to gain practical experience in education and develop skills that will benefit you as you pursue a major in Elementary Education.
As for experiences from elementary school teachers, they often highlight the joy of making a positive impact in children's lives, fostering a love for learning, and witnessing students achieve their milestones. It can be a rewarding career filled with challenges but also immense satisfaction. Good luck with your future endeavors in education!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Emily !
It's so wonderful to know that you will pursue a career in elementary education ! Advisor Iryna Tam has given you a fabulous comprehensive list of possible colleges in the South and possible things to do to obtain hands on experience. I would like to also contribute to provide you with some things to consider as you make plans for this awesome career.
Four of my family members have been in education, two for elementary and two for high school. I also had an uncle that taught at a Medical School in New York City. They all had very successful careers and found it very rewarding. In that group was my mother who taught Kindergarten at a private school.
You are correct in that you do not have to go to an expensive school. All accredited colleges that have an Education program will prepare you to become a teacher. The professors are experienced and you will have many supports on whichever campus you are at.
Something that came to mind is that you are living in New York City but plan to study Education in the South. I just kind of want to run this by you. The highest pay for teachers would be in New York City. You will have to plan to get your certification where you plan to work, but you can always get another state certification and check to see what states certifications are portable. It varies. Also, an Education degree from a New York university carries weight, even if it's not from an Ivy League college. I understand that people's personal lives sometimes unfold where they live and yours may be in the South for school, but I just wanted to run that by you in case things change about where you live.
To have a broad choice of schools to teach in or educational formats, there are many ways to teach. You can teach in public schools, parochial schools, private schools and there are also alternatives such as Montessori Schools and Waldorf Schools. You will also be able to private tutor and Homeschool for students whose parents advertise for teachers for their child. So there is quite a variety of forums for teaching that can add variety to a career. After my mother retired from teaching, she obtained part time work tutoring the children of a gymnast instructor and taught crafting to adults at an adult Retreat Camp part time.
While in High School, the best extracurriculars that you can be involved in will be anything that has to do with public speaking, like a debate team or participating in shows at your school. Leadership skills can be honed by running for a class office, too. Check with one of the Libraries to see if they have a Literacy Program at which you can be a volunteer instructor teaching people how to read. Librarians can refer you to a branch that may have a program like that.
I was never an educator but had a taste of it between my sophomore and junior year as a college student. I taught Acting to children 6 - 16 years old at five different locations. I felt more like I was Directing theatre than teaching, but the budding actors did learn a lot. I was in it more for the theatrical aspect of it than the education factor. The students I had were wonderful. You have to meet them where they're at and they're all different and learn differently. It was easy to do this because the vehicle was more of recreation, not in-school classroom teaching.
I hope that this helps for things to think about and I wish you all the best !
It's so wonderful to know that you will pursue a career in elementary education ! Advisor Iryna Tam has given you a fabulous comprehensive list of possible colleges in the South and possible things to do to obtain hands on experience. I would like to also contribute to provide you with some things to consider as you make plans for this awesome career.
Four of my family members have been in education, two for elementary and two for high school. I also had an uncle that taught at a Medical School in New York City. They all had very successful careers and found it very rewarding. In that group was my mother who taught Kindergarten at a private school.
You are correct in that you do not have to go to an expensive school. All accredited colleges that have an Education program will prepare you to become a teacher. The professors are experienced and you will have many supports on whichever campus you are at.
Something that came to mind is that you are living in New York City but plan to study Education in the South. I just kind of want to run this by you. The highest pay for teachers would be in New York City. You will have to plan to get your certification where you plan to work, but you can always get another state certification and check to see what states certifications are portable. It varies. Also, an Education degree from a New York university carries weight, even if it's not from an Ivy League college. I understand that people's personal lives sometimes unfold where they live and yours may be in the South for school, but I just wanted to run that by you in case things change about where you live.
To have a broad choice of schools to teach in or educational formats, there are many ways to teach. You can teach in public schools, parochial schools, private schools and there are also alternatives such as Montessori Schools and Waldorf Schools. You will also be able to private tutor and Homeschool for students whose parents advertise for teachers for their child. So there is quite a variety of forums for teaching that can add variety to a career. After my mother retired from teaching, she obtained part time work tutoring the children of a gymnast instructor and taught crafting to adults at an adult Retreat Camp part time.
While in High School, the best extracurriculars that you can be involved in will be anything that has to do with public speaking, like a debate team or participating in shows at your school. Leadership skills can be honed by running for a class office, too. Check with one of the Libraries to see if they have a Literacy Program at which you can be a volunteer instructor teaching people how to read. Librarians can refer you to a branch that may have a program like that.
I was never an educator but had a taste of it between my sophomore and junior year as a college student. I taught Acting to children 6 - 16 years old at five different locations. I felt more like I was Directing theatre than teaching, but the budding actors did learn a lot. I was in it more for the theatrical aspect of it than the education factor. The students I had were wonderful. You have to meet them where they're at and they're all different and learn differently. It was easy to do this because the vehicle was more of recreation, not in-school classroom teaching.
I hope that this helps for things to think about and I wish you all the best !