A PUBLICATION OF
New Horizons 2019 Colleges and Universities Guide
It’s time to hit the books! That’s right; it’s time to go back-to-school…. and this includes educators. Most people generally focus on the kids when it comes to the back-toschool frenzy, but SEEN is just as committed to higher education and professional development for our educators. For this reason, we present the 2019 Colleges and Universities Guide. This digital guide features some of the best graduate programs to be considered for master’s degrees, doctoral programs, certifications and endorsements. These accredited institutions have the programs and tools to elevate your career in education. Take the time to not just review the programs in this guide, but to also apply to these great programs! Let’s start this academic year off focused on continuing to educate ourselves - so we can be our very best selves for our students and communities. Welcome to a new school year, Deirdre Edwards SEEN Editor-In-Chief 2 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
The FUTURE is Yours Are you a successful teacher who is culturally responsive, engages families and communities, works in blended, project based and personal learning, and uses innovative STEM technology?
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• Save money: Achieve your Masters or post-Master’s advanced certificates at a reduced rate • Exceptional quality education: Highly ranked by US News & World Report • Career changing curriculum with Bilingual extension options: 1. Instructional Technology 2. School Leadership and Technology 3. School Counseling Post-Master’s 4. Classroom Teaching Advanced Degrees 5. Develop the knowledge base and skills to lead and Certificates school improvement while remaining in the classroom. The future is yours, so seize it with your valuable NYIT online Graduate Degree!
Now it’s your move: Just make the call to NYIT at 516-686-4931 or email @ epirri@nyit.edu
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The University of Memphis The University of Memphis was founded in 1912 as a school for teachers and has carried that tradition forward for more than a century. With a variety of nationally ranked programs, the University is a leader in the virtual delivery of advanced education through its online degree collective, UofM Global. With its innovative teaching methods and research-based curriculum, UofM Global is the perfect option for educators wanting to take the next step in their careers and enhance their teaching and educational administrative skills. Of the UofM’s 21,000 students, more than 3,000 take courses solely online from 39 states and multiple countries. UofM Global, ranked in the top five online programs in the Mid-South by U.S. News and World Report, offers opportunities to assist you in your career path without the boundaries set forth by traditional college structures. Each student’s online experience is enhanced by the many resources available at the UofM — a Carnegie Tier-II research institution. What makes UofM Global unique and the right fit to help you meet your career goals? Building Leaders in Education
Within UofM Global, the nationally ranked Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership (ICL) prepares students for leadership in an educationrelated setting. Each path toward a degree is specifically designed for each student bsed on prior experiences and career goals. ICL students can obtain a certificate in as little as four classes, a Master’s degree in 18 months or a Doctoral degree in three years. Program options include the following:
• Master’s with Licensure Associated o Teaching Secondary Education 4 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
–Adolescent development, learning theory, social foundations of education and teaching methods o Teaching Special Education – For students interested in teaching children with mild disabilities • Master’s – Non-Licensure o Curriculum and Instruction – Skills for leadership and advancement in K-12 settings o Instructional Design and Technology – For aspiring school librarians and media specialists o Literacy Concentration – Teaches implementation of integrated language arts program, assess literacy levels and apply current research and instructional approaches • Doctoral o EdD in ICL: Concentration in Instructional Design and Technology – Prepares you to solve education and training problems in diverse settings • Grad Certificate o Instructional Design and Technology – Certificates awarded after four courses in either an Educational Technology track or Design and Development track. o Literacy, Leadership and Coaching – Advance your skills in the promotion of literacy with specific emphasis on reading, writing, listening and speaking. o Autism Studies – Designed to equip parents, teachers and professionals with the tools necessary to successfully work with children with autism. o School Library Information Specialist Affordable, Efficient and Flexible
How much will it cost and how long will it take? These are the top concerns on the list of questions for adults making a return to school. With UofM Global, those
potential deal-breakers can be overcome in a number of ways. Get Credit for What You Know
Unlike traditional schools with strict course structures that can cause students to compile large amounts of debt, UofM Global’s primary goal is to help students succeed. They do this through offering a quality education in as short a time frame as possible with a set tuition structure. In order to accelerate advancement through the program, the Experiential Learning Credit program awards students with college credits for their prior college-level knowledge acquired outside the classroom. Students may be eligible to earn up to 25%* of the required credit hours through earned certifications, professional development activities or credit by exam. *(up to 8 credit hours on average for graduate programs) Last year, more than 400 students were awarded Experiential Learning Credit saving them valuable time and money. Those students collectively saved more than $1 million while accelerating degree completion. Even without that, there’s no need to put a pause on your life for school. Earn a degree on your time without sacrificing your current job. Each of the fully online degree paths at UofM Global is designed with the flexibility that caters to working individuals. Flat-Rate Tuition
University-sponsored scholarships, including an adult scholarship for continuing learners, are available to online UofM students. And there’s no confusing tuition calculator. Courses are offered at a flat fee with the exception of additional fees that apply to select courses. For more information, call 901.678.3921 or visit memphis.edu/icl.
PASSION TO IMPACT
INSTRUCTION & CURRICULUM LEADERSHIP Earn your degree 100% online from the accredited, nationallyrecognized University of Memphis. Take the next step in your career. Explore graduate degree and certificate programs to help you enhance your teaching and administrative skills. UofM Global will prepare you to be an educational leader in the profession of your choice. Accelerate Time to Completion Each student’s degree pathway is customized to fit his/her prior experience and career goals. Credit for Prior Learning Earn college credit for knowledge you’ve gained through work experience and test out of classes. Affordable, Flat-Rate Tuition No out-of-state or confusing tuition structure. Just one flat fee per credit hour! (Select courses have additional fees)
Explore degree programs at memphis.edu/icl The University of Memphis is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action University. It is committed to the education of a non-racially identifiable student body. UOM1338-FY1819
Reasons to Attend Graduate School task, deciding whether to return to graduate school, but the value of advancing your degree can reap many benefits beyond the actual certificate. So why should you start working on your master’s degree now? Maybe you are still on the hunt for that perfect job, maybe you have just secured your first teaching position, or maybe yet, you are a veteran teacher with many years of classroom experience. Graduate school has crossed your mind, but you have yet to make a commitment. You are still wondering, “Is it really worth it?” It can be a daunting
Reason #1 – To Secure a Teaching Position
Adding on a specialty area will only enhance your resume, making you more employable. Our country is currently experiencing nationwide teacher shortages across disciplines, but particularly in areas such as special education, world languages, reading and English as a second language (U.S. Department of Education,
2018). By enrolling in a graduate program that also allows you to obtain a new certificate or licensure will open more doors for job opportunities. Reason #2 – For Financial Incentives
Depending on your state and/ or school of employment, you may be eligible for a pay increase once you obtain your master’s degree. Furthermore, there may be opportunities for tuition reimbursement as you pursue your degree. It is important to check with your local school to determine what financial benefits are offered for advanced graduate coursework. Reason #3 – To Satisfy Continuing Education Credit Hours
Although it varies state-to-state, engaging in professional development opportunities through workshops, trainings, or coursework is often required to maintain licensure. If it is required to earn continuing education hours, why not earn a master’s degree at the same time. Reason #4 – To Remain Current with Evidence-Based Teaching Practices
Find your FUTURE at SAU With small class sizes and unique academic programs, Saint Augustine’s University promotes a culture of caring for our students.
Come to Raleigh, North Carolina and find out how to Transform. Excel. Lead. www.st-aug.edu 919.516.4000 6 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
Beyond licensure maintenance or recertification, enrolling in graduate school will help you remain current with the most efficacious teaching strategies and techniques. Graduate school will enhance your skills whether a novice teacher or veteran teacher. New research is continually being published to provide evidence to support various classroom management strategies, academic interventions, and behavioral interventions. Remaining up-todate with current best practices will contribute to your success as a teacher, and ultimately to the academic and behavioral success of your students.
Reason #5 – To Make a Career Change
Perhaps you are interested remaining in education, but in a different capacity. The world of education has a wide array of job opportunities beyond the traditional teacher role. School psychologists, reading specialists, school counselors, principals, social workers and behavior specialists are just a few of the many professionals that comprise the education world. Graduate school is your path to a new career endeavor. Reason #6 – To Develop an Area of expertise
There is no better way to develop an area of expertise than through graduate school. Perhaps your passion is working with students with autism; an advanced degree in behavior management or applied behavior analysis may be your track. Perhaps teaching children to read and studying the most effective reading techniques is your area
of interest; an advanced degree in reading would be an appropriate avenue. Whether your niche is behavior, reading, curriculum, or early childhood education — to name a few — there is a graduate program out there that will fit your interests. Reason #7 – For Personal and Professional Growth
Although a vast amount of knowledge is gained through the completion of a graduate program, there are many benefits to finishing a program that extend beyond increases in knowledge. Networks are established, friends are made, skills are enhanced and confidence is gained. Deciding to pursue an advanced degree may not be an easy task; financial costs, family commitments, and work responsibilities should all be taken in to consideration when making a final decision. However, once you decide to further your education, regardless of the reason(s),
Advance Your Career with an Online Graduate Degree Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership
Why Choose CIU? • Regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools sacscoc.org • Online classes can be accessed anytime, 24/7 • Highly engaged professors who are practitioners of the subjects they teach • Affordable programs • Eligible for federal financial aid and employer reimbursement plans
you will forever be thankful for the knowledge, skills, and recognition that accompany that master’s degree. Dr. Meghan Ferraro is an assistant professor and the graduate program head for special education in the Department of Counseling, School Psychology, and Special Education. She is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, as well as a Pennsylvania Certified Elementary Teacher, Special Education Teacher, and School Psychologist. She has over 10 years’ experience working in the public school system as both an educator and school psychologist. Dr. Ferraro earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania and her master’s degree in Educational Psychology, Educational Specialist’s Degree in School Psychology, and Doctoral Degree in School Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
APPLY TODAY! (800) 777-2227 ciu.edu/apply
New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 7
Look what’s just around the corner for YOU
3 Reasons It’s Time to Pursue an Advanced Degree in Stem Education Master of Arts: Excellence in Teaching 3 Now offered 100% ONLINE 3 INDIVIDUALIZED degree plans 3 20 core hours, 15 FLEXIBLE hours 3 Multiple endorsement areas available
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Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is at the forefront of national and regional education agendas. A strong foundation in STEM education for K-12 students is critical for the country’s continued success in a globalized economy. So, how can we best prepare K-12 students for STEM-related careers? “The answer is effective interdisciplinary STEM professional development for educators,” says Jennifer Albert, Ph.D., director of the STEM Center of Excellence at The Citadel. “In order for K-12 students around the country to be successfully prepared to compete in our workforce and enter the thousands of unfilled STEM jobs, educators must be well-equipped with the tools necessary to teach STEM content in an authentic and integrated way.” For teachers in the classroom and educators working in informal schools such as museums and aquariums, the solution is an advanced degree program that integrates STEM disciplines in a holistic fashion. Here are three reasons that it’s time to think about pursuing an advanced degree in STEM education:
1. You Want to Prepare Tomorrow’s STEM Workforce Today
According to a 2017 update on STEM jobs from the U.S. Department of Commerce, there were an estimated nine million STEM professionals in the United States in 2015. Over the last decade, employment in STEM occupations grew much faster than employment in non-STEM occupations. Also, STEM occupations are projected to grow by almost 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, compared to only 6.4 percent growth for non-STEM occupations. Many middle and high school students are noticing the great demand for STEM jobs. Despite their interest, however, the American College Test reports that out of the 48 percent of high school graduates taking the ACT who expressed interest in STEM-related careers, only a quarter met and exceeded preparedness benchmarks. The National Science Board ranked highly effective teachers as one of their top priorities in ensuring quality STEM education. There is a critical need to build STEM literacy in schools across the nation to benefit the future of society. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than half of the
professional development for STEM teachers makes it easier for students to understand the interdisciplinary nature of STEM and how their skills can transfer to different disciplines. A M.Ed. program devoted to the development and practice of 21st century instruction as it relates to STEM content knowledge is what an educator should look for when selecting a program. Core coursework and electives in a program should include developing STEM disciplinary literacy skills, the chemistry of art, and multidisciplinary experimental design and implementation. Upon graduating, the educator should be skilled at creating relevant projects for use in the classroom and utilizing project-based instruction to effectively engage their students in fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. 3. You Appreciate the Convenience of Online Education
Online education has taken the
economy’s fastest growing jobs require significant training in one or more STEM disciplines, and 62 percent of all jobs today require STEM skills. Effective and talented educators, both formal and informal, are needed to pique the interests of K-12 students in ways that encourage them to successfully pursue careers in STEM fields through contemporary lessons. The coursework found in the Master of Education in Interdisciplinary STEM Education program at The Citadel is designed to assist educators teaching STEM subjects and to provide them with the means to teach STEM content in more effective and innovative ways. 2. You Want to Teach Through Integrated Approaches
There have been many discussions in the academic world that suggest STEM education is best approached through interdisciplinary methods. Educators who incorporate integrated and relevant STEM material into lesson plans that help students solve real-world problems are in demand. Proper and up-to-date
higher education sector by storm mostly due to its asynchrony and other advantages for the busy, yet educationminded student. The number of fouryear colleges offering online courses of study has increased significantly over the past decade and continues to trend upward due to the value-added benefits for students and institutions alike. The convenience factor makes pursuing a graduate STEM degree all the more appealing and necessary for educators in the 21st century. The Citadel’s Master of Education in Interdisciplinary STEM Education is a 34-credit hour online degree program designed for formal and informal educators. The goal of the program is to create 21st century STEM educators and leaders by facilitating a broader understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of STEM, a deeper knowledge of discipline-specific content, and new integrated approaches for the teaching and learning of STEM content. To learn more, visit citadel. edu or email stem@citadel.edu.
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For More Information: edtechnologyspecialists.com email: odl@adrews.edu New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 9
NGU College of Education Graduates Influencing Region North Greenville University’s (NGU) College of Education (COE) began in 1997 with nine graduates in 1998 from three programs: early childhood education, elementary education, and music education. In 2008, secondary programs were added in Science, English, Social Studies and Mathematics. Since this time, 1,234 educators have graduated from the university’s undergraduate and graduate programs. “Education continues to be one of the largest Colleges at the university and graduation rates remain at 95%, one of the highest at NGU,” said Dean of the COE Dr. Constance Wright. “We are adding programs and increasing our influence across the state.” NGU’s Doctor of Education program began in Fall 2016 and has
10 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
enrolled 58 students with projected first graduates in Fall 2019. The graduate programs and their influence continue to grow and expand, meeting a need for South Carolina (SC) and North Carolina (NC) educators. “At the undergraduate level, when comparing mathematics education graduates across the state, NGU ranks fourth,” said Professor of Education Dr. Jill Branyon. In the past three years, NGU COE has seen 100% employment for those seeking teaching jobs. “Our graduates choose a variety of paths. At least ten graduates are serving schools around the globe. The influence and impact of NGU COE graduates are far-reaching and powerful,” said Branyon. NGU has at least six principals, including the state Principal of the Year in 2014-15 and at least six assistant principals. Several earned doctorates, while others are education specialists, instructional coaches, literacy coaches, or national board certified teachers. There are three teaching in Alaska with one serving a remote area. “We have produced over 65 Teachers of the Year, three district Teachers of the Year and two state Emerging Young Leaders in Education. Our graduates are ready and willing to work in hard places and make a difference in the lives of SC students,” said Branyon. In 2018, the Center for Educational Leadership and Research (CELR) was launched at NGU’s Tim Brashier Campus at Greer to further expand the university’s influence in education in the region. Its goal is to conduct and support objective research related to public education, provide
professional development, advance the study of organizational leadership through collaborative partnerships, and work with tools and resources to move research into practice. Dr. Harold Long, professor of education, serves as the Center’s director. “In August, the CELR began to collaborate in partnerships and was selected by Greenwood District 52 to provide consulting and professional development in their schools,” said Long. CELR was instrumental in redesigning literacy instruction in both the primary and elementary schools, which has changed the way reading is taught in the two schools and have implemented data-driven practices among professional staff on leadership development and implementing research-based practices. A comprehensive needs assessment was conducted and found that 86% of kindergarten students were reading significantly below grade level. The most recent assessment conducted in February shows that only 18% are now reading significantly below grade level. The Self Family Foundation based in Greenwood, SC, funded a grant to provide literacy resources for both the primary and elementary schools. It also funds progress monitoring to further implement the CELR’s objective of data-driven practices in their plan. NGU COE continues to impact public and private education in the region by graduating the next generation’s amazing teachers and administrators. CELR will continue to establish partnerships that will provide consulting and professional development to better the educational community for school districts across the state of South Carolina and beyond. For information about NGU’s undergraduate and graduate programs in education, visit www.ngu.edu/coe and CELR, visit www.ngu.edu/center-foreducational-leadership-and-research
D A E L the way LEAD THE WAY You don’t simply want to teach. You want to lead the way for your students, making a difference in their lives so they will go on to make a difference in the world. North Greenville University is here for you. For the past three years, 100% of our job-seeking education grads have landed teaching positions. And based on their feedback, NGU met or exceeded their expectations as far as training them to be difference-making educators. Because at NGU, our alumni aren’t just employed; they’re prepared — to serve, to transform, to lead. Learn more at ngu.edu/coe. BACHELOR’S • MASTER’S • DOCTORAL
Learn more at NGu.edu
WITH Dr. Julie Hannah, Assistant Professor for Instructional Leadership at Samford University.
Still Relevant? The Importance Of A Master’s Degree If you are in education, you are well aware of the need to continue to learn. Whether your knowledge continues through certifications, endorsements or a master’s degree, the emphasis placed on constant learning is always there and widely regarded. For many educators, of the three 12 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
named, a master’s degree is at the top of the list in attainment. In a 2015 article by Inside Higher Ed’s Colleen Flaherty, first time graduate school enrollment was up and the largest enrollments were in the field of education and business. The article cited report findings from the Council
of Graduate School and the Graduate Record Examinations Board where it stated “some 73.1 percent of all students were enrolled in master’s degree or graduate certificate programs.” (“Going Back to School,” Inside Higher Ed, Sept. 17, 2015). With this in mind, SEEN
of former students SEEN: Are educators’ master’s programs better structured if the program provides more theoretical vs. practical approaches? If so, why? If no, why not?
thought it was only fitting to delve into the topic of master p.32 - degree programs and what you, the prospective student, should look for when considering a program. Samford University’s Dr. Julie Hannah, Assistant Professor and Director, MSE for Educational Leadership, shares her views on finding a good master’s program, why master’s degrees are still important in professional development, and how having a master-degreed educator impacts a school/district.
Dr. Hannah: At Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education the goal of our master’s program is to prepare teachers and leaders to improve the K12 learning environment. This involves the candidates doing their own review of educational research related to current problems or issues (theoretical) and having opportunity to enact some of those ideas into practice (practical). SEEN: What does having a master-degreed educator mean to the principal and the superintendent (how does this
affect grants, funding, etc. for the school/school district)? Dr. Hannah: Many funders request the qualifications of the faculty in the grant proposal. The assumption is that if there are many faculty members with advanced degrees, there is a climate of high expectations. Having been the principal of a school with very few teachers with advanced degrees and another which had almost 100 percent with advanced degrees, I noted a significant difference in the desire to continue to learn how to better instruct in the classrooms. SEEN: Why is a master’s degree still important to pursue— even if your state doesn’t increase your income for obtaining your graduate degree?
SEEN: What expectations should a teacher have going into a master’s program? What should you look for when applying to a program? Dr. Hannah: Candidates for the master’s program should look at several aspects: • Faculty qualifications and experience as K12 practitioners • L earning experiences that are rooted in K12 practice (relevant and real world) and reflect authentic problem solving skills • Opportunities to move through the program with a cohort • Post-graduation success New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 13
Dr. Hannah: Educators have chosen a field of work that is about continual learning. The formal experience of a graduate program fosters deep reflection about student and adult learning. I believe parents, community leaders and the business communities expect educators to change their classroom practices based on the needs of the students, which is ever-changing.
SEEN: Are school districts receptive to graduate degrees pursued online when it comes to looking at hiring credentials?
SEEN: The availability of an online education has changed the higher education landscape forever. In terms of online education for the “educator,” what do you see being the benefit of online programs/certificate? Any challenges? What’s the future?
SEEN: Ideally, any educator or administrator is looking to see how to best implement what they’ve learned in their academic studies in their classroom environments. In your mind, what should be done to set the graduate student up for success once completing the program?
Dr. Hannah: Obviously, online courses accommodate the busy lives of educators. Samford University continues to strive to meet the challenge of creating an online environment that allows candidates to collaborate and problem solve the complex issues of education. 14 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
Dr. Hannah: Districts are receptive to online advanced degrees that are from respected universities who are well known for quality and rigor in their face-to-face programs.
Dr. Hannah: Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education ensures candidates are taught by successful K12 practitioners; engaged in curriculum and learning experiences that challenge their thinking and provide opportunity
for putting the ideas into practice; and work in collaborative groups throughout the program. In addition, when a university can partner with a school district, the content and experiences for the cohort can be customized for their particular needs. This also creates a partnership that benefits the candidate such as opportunities for mentoring, involvement in real work at the district and school level. Dr. Julie Hannah is an Assistant Professor for Instructional Leadership at Samford University. She joined Samford University in August 2015 after retiring from the Alabama State Department of Education as Director of the Office of Student Learning. Previously, she was a teacher, principal, and district administrator in the second largest school district in Alabama. As an adjunct professor for Samford University, Dr. Hannah prepared aspiring principals and teacher leaders to lead schools toward innovation and improvement.
Florida Tech - Your Partner in the Relentless Pursuit of Success Florida Tech (Florida Institute of Technology or F.I.T.) is a private, coeducational, residential and online, research-intensive, doctoral granting university located in the beautiful City of Melbourne on Florida’s sunny “Space Coast.” But who we are is so much more. We are a community of researchers, scholars and learners hailing from all around the world. We are engineers, aviators, innovators, leaders, educators, athletes and astronauts. We have the brains of rocket scientists and the hearts of Panthers. We are Florida Tech. Florida Tech is among the best national universities in the country, according to the 2019 ranking from U.S. News & World Report. Florida Tech’s inclusion in the top tier universities in the United States is its 9th consecutive appearance in the influential guide for prospective
students and their families. Florida Tech’s Continuing Education department is dedicated to delivering affordable, interactive, on-demand, online, high quality, learning opportunities in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis that utilize cutting edge technology and learning principles. Florida Tech offers Organizational Behavior Management, Professional Development Programs, CEs and CEU workshops all offered in partnership with ABA Technologies and completely online. Our programs are available to new and lifelong learners including professional service providers, teachers, caregivers, parents, students and the business community. Florida Tech’s ABA Online professional development course sequences are verified by the BACB® and meet the instructional
requirements for eligibility to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® exam. There are multiple levels of coursework now offered through Florida Tech, including Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) training, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) training, and Registered Behavior Technician™ (RBT®)* training. In addition, Florida Tech’s graduatelevel ABA Online certificate courses may also be taken for credit and applied to a degree program. If you do not require an additional degree to become eligible for certification you may still choose to Florida Tech continues on Page 21
New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 15
Northern Kentucky University Northern Kentucky University (NKU) is proud to be a leader in providing high-quality online graduate programs. Since our founding in 1968 as a public comprehensive university in a major metropolitan area, it has been our mission to meet the regional workforce needs of the citizens in the Cincinnati-tri state. Our robust array of online offerings at the graduate level helps us accomplish this charge. Our online graduate programs range from education, business, health care and informatics, providing curriculum to meet the needs new professionals just completing their undergraduate study to the career changer looking for growth opportunities. We know that students are looking for affordability, accessibility, and timeliness in order to complete their degrees. Many of our students are working full time while balancing family and other
16 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
life commitments. The ability to attend graduate school in the online setting provides students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace. Many of our online programs can be completed in under two years. NKU’s generous transfer credit policies reduce the time to degree even more in many student cases. Studying in an online format brings the classroom directly to the student, solidifying NKU’s commitment to meeting our students where they are in their educational journey. Our dedicated faculty who teach online courses are the same esteemed faculty who teach in our on-campus programs, giving our online graduate students the same access to high-impact advising and mentoring opportunities. A key hallmark of graduate education at NKU is the culminating experience. All of our graduate programs include a capstone, internship, or practicum
experience that synthesize knowledge from their coursework into real-world practical applications. This experience sets our graduates apart by creating an opportunity for them to immediately put in practice their learning from the classroom – an experience that all of our online students are also included in. NKU faculty put both the in and out of the classroom needs of our graduate students at the center of the online learning experience. Find out what makes NKU a leader in graduate online education by visiting https://www.nku.edu/admissions/ graduate.html. Our affordable tuition, high quality instruction, and flexible class options make NKU a solid investment in your future. Christian Gamm, Ph.D. Director of Graduate Education Northern Kentucky University
earn your degree 100% online Ranked among the best 100 Best Online Colleges in the country*, NKU offers more than 30 affordable and comprehensive online degrees to fit your busy lifestyle and your goals. We strive to enhance your professional knowledge base and improve your career opportunities through our traditional 16-week or accelerated 7-week courses, as well as our 5-week format for the MBA.
Find out more nku.edu/online
*TheBestSchools.org
New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 17
The Trustey Family STEM Teaching Fellows at the University of Notre Dame STEM education, like all forms of teaching, is not a neutral endeavor. Engaging young people in the core disciplinary ideas and practices of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is an act of social justice by helping learners shape their own futures. While much of the public discourse advocating for STEM education focuses on the economic argument – the need to develop a technologically and innovative workforce that can meet current labor demands – a different narrative might be told when STEM education is viewed through the dual lenses of how these disciplines can help foster the dignity of every human being and address the needs of the common good. The Trustey Family STEM Teaching Fellows at the University of Notre Dame is just one program across the country that believes forming STEM teacher leaders over multiple years and embedding them in an ever-growing network of diverse and ambitious teachers can result in greater equity in classrooms, the workplace, and our communities.
This orientation is not, however, intuitive. What program model might address both continuous growth in STEM instructional practice as well as position STEM teachers as levers for change in their schools? At the heart of our program are three central modules: 1) STEM Integration, 2) Core Instructional Practices, and 3) the STEM Blueprint. First, the STEM Integration module prepares Fellows to participate and teach in a world of ill-defined, transdisciplinary problems. Whether it is learning and appropriating physics and engineering concepts to design ocean-based wind turbines or using publicly available data from recent water quality crises in the Midwest to identify inequitable access to fresh water, the module focuses on how authentic, contextualized problems can have high pedagogic value while also addressing the needs of the common good. Second, the Core Instructional Practices module highlights the dignity of each individual by drawing on social theories of learning to focus on two core practices: facilitating
BE A FORCE FOR GOOD IN THE WORLD.
BE A TRUSTEY FELLOW.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS FULLY-FUNDED STEM TEACHING FELLOWSHIP AT STEMEDUCATION.ND.EDU
18 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
productive talk and designing and using assessments that inform future instruction, thus meeting the needs of all students. Third, our teachers cannot only be effective in their classrooms, but they need to be change agents at the school level. Working as a school team, Fellows identify important STEM needs for their particular context and begin systematically addressing these needs over a two year period. These modules alone would potentially make a difference in the quality of STEM teachers, but would most likely fail to be transformational without our connecting themes of access, equity, and leadership. Our Fellows are pushed to think about ways to breakdown existing obstacles to students, colleagues, and parents to access meaningful STEM experiences. Drawing on contemporary research as well as tenets of Catholic Social Teaching, we have been able to develop an action-based framework for public and religiously affiliated schools alike that identifies the rights and responsibilities of those engaging in STEM work and the ways in which STEM can be oriented with a preferential option for the marginalized and vulnerable. Finally, changing the culture and building the collective capacity of an organization requires leadership skills that help Fellows develop a coherent vision, motivate community members, and act – sometimes making difficult decisions – in ways that bring the vision to reality. STEM education is more meaningful and, frankly, more exciting, when it is framed as an act of social justice. Young people have the great capacity to leverage their understanding of and their skills in science, technology, and engineering and mathematics beyond constructing balsa wood bridges, coding a meaningless game, or solving a discrete equation. Give them the chance to integrate across disciplines to revive a local watershed, to analyze available data sets as a means for addressing housing inequalities in their communities, or design apps that can meet the needs of the most vulnerable. With these types of complex challenges, young people likely cannot do this on their own. They do not have to. Great teachers, like those involved in the Trustey Family STEM Teaching Fellows, and thousands across the nation who are committed to improving their own instruction and grow as leaders will help them shape their futures. And ours.
The Next Step Elevating Your Career The school bell rings and students are busy filing in their classrooms. As they take their seats, they are ready to begin a new day and learn new lessons – from you – their teacher. However, as you begin to instruct these future leaders, have you ever thought, “What’s the next step for me?” “What does my future in education look like?” This is not an easy question to answer. Whether you’re a classroom teacher or a veteran administrator, there is a point in your career where you have to make a decision about your career path. These days there are so many ways to be an impactful educator and take your career — and income — to the next level. Here are some of the most popular paths to take, what the role is really like, and what it takes to make this your next stop in education. Career Paths for the Classroom Teacher
1) Team Lead/Lead Teacher – As a lead teacher or team lead, you are the bridge between the principal and your fellow coworkers. Your job, as a facilitator, is to make sure the voices of the teachers are heard by the administration regarding all schoolrelated topics — attendance, curriculum,
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instruction, etc. You are also a mentor to other teachers, a liaison between parents and teachers and also track department goals and progress. While there may, or may not, be an additional income boost, the experience is invaluable for those who want to go into administration role. You wouldn’t need additional degrees or certifications for the role, but a master’s degree and additional leadership training is ideal for this role.
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20 New Horizons | SEEN Magazine
2) Instructional Coordinator – The role of Instructional Coordinator is also a path to consider if you’re looking for additional experience in the education field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website, the responsibility of this position is to “oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instructional material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals and assess its effectiveness.” This is a role said to be one of the fastest growing fields in education. Outside your teaching credentials, experience, and a master’s degree, you wouldn’t have to have any additional training to get started. 3) Principal/AssistantPrincipal (Administrator) – This is perhaps the role most people think about when they decide to make a move from the classroom and into a leadership position. While the responsibilities of a principal are heavy, it’s a chance to make an even greater impact on
education and in your community. Scholastic describes the role of Principal/Assistant Principal as, “The assistant principal’s role varies from school to school. Some APs are mostly responsible for logistics and operations, others are primarily in charge of student discipline, and still others head up curriculum and instruction for a particular grade level or two. The principal is a school’s overall instructional leader and manager. (www. scholastic.com)” If you’re looking to head into this line of work, while rewarding, it’s also important to note there are some modern-day challenges as well. In SEEN’s most recent Fall/Winter 2018 edition, the perspectives of two principals – at different stages in their careers – shed light on the role as it exists today. One common thred cited by both principals: community and communication. Both principals felt that the need to communicate – and how you communicate to your staff and community — was vital in being successful in this role. The ways to communicate today are far beyond notes home, press releases to local media, and your PTA meeting. These days you must also have a heavy digital and social media presence to reach parents, teachers, and community leaders. You have to develop a brand for your school as principal and with this you’re sure to go far. Make sure you have the leadership and communication skills needed when you step
into this job because you are the school leader from top to bottom. Also – just in case you were wondering — a master’s degree in education administration and years of educational experience is required. From a principalship position, many may decide to go further up the education hierarchy and pursue roles in education administration. The roles are not necessarily superintendent roles — which most people naturally assume — but these are impactful opportunities that extend far beyond your county and state. Here are some ideas for those looking to go into education administration or even transition out education administration. Career Paths for the Administrator:
1) Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent – This is part of the traditional career path for most principals and you will need a doctorate degree. While the principal evaluates teachers in their schools, the superintendent evaluates principals within their school districts. They also devise overall budgets for schools, work closely with elected officials — i.e. school boards — and oversee professional development for principals and teachers. This role, in a lot of ways, is a very political one – as the superintendent directly interacts with the school board and other local officials to implement policy and standards.
3) Policy Maker/Policy Staff — Someone who chooses to be a “policy maker” doesn’t have to have moved up the ranks as an administrator, but it would help to have significant education experience under your belt in order to make solid recommendations for change. TEACH.org says this role is for the educator looking to make a difference in education via government, “There are a number of policy positions that you might consider at a Mayor’s Office, a County Office of Education, a State Education Agency, U.S. Department of Education, or the legislative branches at the state or federal level. In these roles, you may help research and inform educational policy decisions.”
4) Education Consultant – The education consultant is one that has really taken off among former teachers and administrators alike. You are truly your own business when you decide to become an education consultant. There are so many avenues you can take in doing this, but the overall goal is to lend your expertise to help schools excel. Scholastic’s description of an education consultant: “Consultants for nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies work with teachers and administrators to 2) Corporate Trainer — A corporate help boost student achievement.” trainer is not one most people It helps to have an extensive think of but can certainly be very background in education – from lucrative for those who want may teaching to administration – to want to put their skills to work be able to provide the needed after leaving an administrative role. counsel to district administrators. Trade-Schools Net says, “Training The skill set of an educator provides other professionals in a business so many other great career opportunities setting can be a terrific way to use this article hasn’t even begun to touch your presentation, communication, upon. The skills utilized daily in front and leadership skills. (www. trade- of the class not only helps you propel schools.net, 36 Jobs For Former students forward but can also propel Teachers). You can still teach – just your own career or second career in this time to corporations and non- education. The important takeaways profit organizations. Courses to found in any of the opportunities above become a corporate trainer will be is: a passion for continued learning a key factor to your success. Look and a desire to make a difference. online and to your local university With those two characteristics alone, to see what additional credentials/ the sky is the limit to what you can certifications you need to get started. do in your education career.
Florida Tech continued from Page 15
enroll in our Graduate programs for a degree centered on behavior analysis. At this time Florida Tech offers five different graduate applied behavior analysis programs: • Master’s of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Behavior analysis (PBA), which focuses on science-informed practitioners • Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which focuses on clinical and educational applications • M.S. in Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), which focuses on business and industry applications • M.S. in ABA plus OBM (ABA + OBM), which focuses on both • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Behavior Analysis To learn more about Florida Tech’s ABA Online behavior analysis programs, please visit http://aba. fit.edu/. To learn more about Florida Tech’s graduate degree programs, please visit: https://www. fit.edu/psychology-and-liberalarts/schools/behavior-analysis/ Connect with us on social media through the following platforms: • Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/FITABA/ • Twitter: https://twitter. com/ABAOnlineAtFIT • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin. com/in/FloridaTechABA/ • Instagram: https:// www.instagram.com/ FloridaTechABA/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/c/FloridaTechCE *Florida Tech’s RBT training program is based on the Registered Behavior Technician Task List (1st and 2nd Edition) and is designed to meet the 40-hour training requirement for the RBT credential. This program is offered independent of the BACB. Florida Tech’s RBT training program is offered in English AND Spanish.
New Horizons | SEEN Magazine 21
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