The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Early Childhood Integrated PreK-3 Residency program is designed for individuals seeking initial licensure to teach young children from pre-kindergarten through third grade. This program equips candidates to create inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and engaging learning environments that address the diverse needs of all students, including English learners, children with special needs, and those from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
Throughout the program, candidates study foundational theories in child development, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive education, with a focus on fostering the social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development of young children. Coursework emphasizes best practices in early literacy, mathematics, and creative arts, integrating evidence-based strategies to support holistic development. Additionally, candidates are trained to work collaboratively with families and communities, recognizing their crucial role in children’s learning journeys.
A distinctive feature of this program is the one-year paid residency, where candidates gain hands-on experience in real-world classrooms under the mentorship of experienced educators. This residency allows candidates to progressively take on teaching responsibilities, apply their learning in an authentic setting, and build strong classroom management and instructional skills. With continuous guidance from mentor teachers, candidates can refine their teaching practices, integrate inclusive strategies, and actively contribute to creating equitable and supportive learning environments.
Graduates of the MAT Early Childhood Integrated PreK-3 Residency program are well-prepared to meet state licensure requirements and make a meaningful impact on young learners, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in diverse educational settings.
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