Education: Grades PK-2
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Program Contact
Mark D. McCarthy |
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Curriculum and Delivery
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Upcoming Events
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Create Exceptional Learning Environments.
The BS in Education: Grades PK-2 degree from Springfield College trains you to become an early childhood professional. Through this program, you will be able to create high quality, collaborative, comprehensive, consistent, and culturally congruent learning environments for all children, ages birth - 8. You will also be able to support and validate parents and families so that communities in which families function will be empowered to achieve social and economic justice.
Through the general education program, you will become a literate, thoughtful, and socially responsible student, seeking the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and competency essential for the improvement of the human condition in a diverse society. These skills will translate into your work with the preschool through second grade age groups. You will complete 26 semester hours focused on PK-2 coursework, in addition to the core requirements.
The hybrid delivery of this program allows you to complete your work both in-person and online, offering you the flexibility to continue working while completing your degree. The PK-2 Concentration does not lead to teacher licensure but can lead to a Massachusetts Early Education and Care Certification. This concentration is only available to those enrolled at the Springfield or Boston regional campuses.
What job can I get with a degree in Education: Grades PK-2?
A degree in Education: Grades PK-2 from Springfield College prepares you for a rewarding career shaping young minds. Graduates can become preschool or kindergarten teachers, where you’ll create engaging learning environments that foster early development and enthusiasm for learning. Another impactful role is that of a childcare center director, overseeing educational programs and ensuring high standards of care and instruction.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young students in basic subjects, such as math and reading, in order to prepare them for middle school. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers help students learn and apply important concepts. Many teachers use a hands-on approach to help students understand abstract concepts, solve problems, and develop critical-thinking skills. For example, they may demonstrate how to do a science experiment and then have the students conduct the experiment themselves. They may have students work together to solve problems.
Teacher assistants also are called teacher aides, instructional aides, paraprofessionals, education assistants, and paraeducators.
Teacher assistants work with or under the guidance of a licensed teacher. Reviewing with students individually or in small groups, teacher assistants help reinforce the lessons that teachers introduce.
Teacher assistants may provide feedback to teachers for monitoring student progress. Some teacher assistants meet regularly with teachers to discuss lesson plans and students’ development.
