Lewis-Clark State College

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational education theory with specialised methods courses targeted at specific levels (for example, early childhood/elementary or secondary) and content areas. You will study child and adolescent development, learning theory, assessment and classroom management, differentiated instruction, literacy and content‑area methods, and inclusive practices for diverse learners. The professional development strand emphasises adult learning theory, coaching, curriculum design, data‑informed instruction and strategies for leading in‑service training.

Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Foundations of Education and Educational Psychology
• Classroom Assessment and Measurement
• Instructional Methods for Specific Levels and Subjects (e.g. elementary literacy methods, secondary content methods)
• Differentiation and Special Education Principles
• Curriculum Design and Standards‑based Planning
• Instructional Technology and Blended Learning
• Professional Development, Coaching and Leadership in Schools
• Sequential field placements culminating in a full‑time student teaching practicum

Courses balance campus‑based seminars with progressive clinical experiences in partner K–12 schools in the Lewiston region. The programme typically concludes with an intensive student teaching semester and a capstone project focused on a professional development or curriculum initiative.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet general admission to Lewis‑Clark State College and the specific admissions criteria for the Teacher Education programme. Typical requirements include completion of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent), successful college placement or completion of foundation coursework, and completion of prerequisite courses in English and mathematics.

Entry to the teacher preparation sequence usually requires:

• Satisfactory college transcript demonstrating preparation for upper‑division work and meeting the programme’s prerequisite coursework
• Meeting the Teacher Education Unit’s GPA standard and progress benchmarks (as set by the college)
• Successful background clearance and any health or immunisation requirements prior to field placements
• Professional references or a statement of purpose that outlines motivation for teaching

Because licensure requirements are set by the state, candidates should expect to complete required certification assessments and state‑mandated requirements prior to recommendation for licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial classroom licensure and typical entry roles include elementary or secondary classroom teacher in public or private schools. The programme’s emphasis on methods and professional development also opens pathways into instructional coaching, curriculum specialist roles, professional development coordination, educational consulting, and school leadership support positions.

Many graduates continue into postgraduate study for a Master’s in Education, instructional leadership, special education, or educational technology. Others use the professional development strand to work with district curriculum teams, teacher induction programmes, or adult education providers.

Why study at Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis‑Clark State College offers a teacher preparation environment characterised by small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and strong partnerships with local school districts in the Lewiston area. The programme emphasises hands‑on clinical experience through sequential field placements that build from observation to student teaching, allowing students to apply methods in real classrooms under experienced mentors.

The college is regionally accredited and maintains licensure pathways aligned with state certification expectations. Students benefit from a community focus on teacher preparation, opportunities for involvement in local schools and extracurricular support services such as advising, career services and access to instructional technology resources.

Overall, the programme is suited to candidates who want a practical, community‑connected route into teaching and to practising educators seeking structured training in professional development and instructional leadership.