Elementary Education K-6 with Endorsements in ESOL and Reading

The Elementary Education (Grades K-6) Major with Endorsements in ESOL and Reading introduces students to the fundamentals of teaching in the elementary school and in English Language Learning (ELL) classrooms. The Elementary Education major includes general education courses and professional studies in early childhood development, educational philosophy, and specialized teaching methodologies. Students receive instruction in lesson preparation and presentation, classroom management, integration of a biblical worldview and application of biblical knowledge to the teaching profession, development and implementation of curriculum, and current trends in education. They develop their own philosophy of education based on these insights, and they demonstrate their skills and knowledge through an electronic portfolio using the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices (FEAPs). Field experiences expose students to the full range of elementary education in Florida, including ELL and ESE classrooms.

Elementary Education (K-6) Licensure and Certification
Johnson University Florida’s Teacher Preparation program is approved by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and by the Florida Department of Education. State clinical practice requirements are met through field experiences and internships.

Johnson University Florida elementary education graduates are in high demand and have experienced great success in obtaining teaching positions in public and private schools in Florida.

Experiential Learning
Experience in the school classroom is considered a vital part of a teacher’s training and is part of the preparation for the degree in elementary education with endorsements in ESOL and Reading. Students participate in the following clinical practice experiences:

• Field Experience: lower-level courses in public schools
• Practicum: upper-level courses in ELL and ESE classrooms and a reading lab
• Internship: clinical practice in a public school classroom for one academic year

Elementary Education (K-6) Program Admission, Continuation, and Licensure
For undergraduate students, earning a bachelor’s degree and teaching license is a four-stage process:

• Initial university admission: admission to Johnson University Florida is detailed in the academic catalog.
• Templar School of Education admission: Admission to the teacher preparation program is based on the following criteria:
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 in Arts and Sciences
  • Passing grade on all of the General Knowledge Tests of the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE)
  • Grade of B- or better on Teacher Preparation Core Courses and Field Experiences
  • Satisfactory completion of required elements of the e-portfolio
• Graduation: Students must successfully complete all requirements for the bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (K-6) with Endorsements in ESOL and Reading. This includes passing all FTCE exams and earning a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4-point scale.
• Licensure: Florida Statute 1012 establishes the authority and  purpose for Educator Certification. All information regarding Educator Certification is overseen by the Bureau of Educator Certification (BEC). Comprehensive certification information can be found on the BEC website or on the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) home page under “Educator Certification.” Elementary Education graduates who need help with the certification process may contact the Templar School of Education.

Every undergraduate student pursuing a four-year degree at Johnson earns a double major – a major in Bible and Theology and a major of their choice, like Elementary Education. Click here to learn more about the Bible and Theology major.