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Elementary Education

This major prepares candidates to teach all core subjects in K-6 elementary classrooms. Candidates complete coursework in child development, instructional methods, classroom management, and assessment, along with multiple field experiences. Students may select additional endorsements to expand their certification area.

The Elementary Education Pathways

William Penn University offers multiple pathways for students pursuing a major in Elementary Education (K–6), allowing candidates to tailor their preparation based on their interests and career goals. All elementary education majors are prepared to teach in K–6 classrooms. Students may choose to enhance their degree by adding a Reading Endorsement (K–8), which qualifies them to provide reading instruction and support across elementary and middle school settings. Another option is to add the Instructional Strategist I Endorsement (K–8), which prepares candidates to teach students with mild to moderate disabilities. For those seeking additional versatility, students may choose to complete both endorsements, resulting in licensure to teach in elementary classrooms while also being qualified to serve as reading specialists and special education teachers. These flexible options support students in becoming highly prepared, in-demand educators.

Distance Learning

At William Penn, we understand completing your education degree on our traditional campus may not be an option for you. That’s why we offer a Distance Learning program, specifically designed for those busy individuals who want to earn an elementary education degree or endorsement, on their own terms. With the use of an online platform and the dedication of our instructors, our Distance Learning program offers you the flexible scheduling you need to achieve your goals.

After completing this program students will have developed complex problem solving skills and effective communication abilities, allowing them to be reflective practitioners in their classrooms. Recent graduates of the William Penn Elementary Elementary Education program have been employed with the following schools:

  • Pekin Middle School
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  • Oskaloosa Elementary School
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  • Albia Community School District
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  • Des Moines Public Schools
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  • Moravia Elementary School
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  • Twin Cedars Community School District
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  • Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Elementary School
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  • Knoxville Community School District
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  • North Mahaska Community School District

With a focus on both theory and practice, students engage in meaningful fieldwork from their first education course and participate in a robust sequence of field experiences, culminating in 16 weeks of student teaching. Recent placements have been completed in the following area school districts:

  • Oskaloosa Community School District
  • North Mahaska Community School District
  • Pella Community School District
  • Ottumwa Community School District
  • Knoxville Community School District
  • Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Elementary School
  • Montezuma Elementary School
  • Sigourney Elementary School

William Penn University’s Education Club promotes a fun learning environment for current students. Club members make frequent trips to local schools to help tutor and demonstrate important leadership qualities. Upon permission, students will volunteer and judge elementary science and history fairs, as well as other fun events which portray the growth in elementary education.

ISEA Aspiring Educators provides opportunities for students pursuing education degrees to address the broader aspects of education, such as educational reform efforts, technological advances, governmental policies, and social and philosophical issues.

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Faculty

Instructor of Education

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Instructor of Education

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Assistant Professor of Education

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Assistant Teaching Professor of Education

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Assistant Professor of Education, Assessment Coordinator, Licensure Official

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Instructor of Education

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Director of Distance Learning

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Instructor of Education

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