EDUCATION 209
mandated minimums are not eligible for admission into the School of Education. Incomplete School of Education applications will result in denial of admission. Application essays that earn a score of less than 15 will have one opportunity for revision. If the second revision earns a score of less than 15, the candidate will be denied admission to the School of Education. Retention in the School of Education Once admitted to the School of Education, candidates must abide by the following retention policies to remain in the program: • Candidates must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or greater in all coursework. • Candidates must maintain a C or better in all required coursework in professional education and the chosen teaching specialization(s). • Candidates must successfully complete field experience requirements prescribed in the chosen teaching specialization(s). • Candidates must demonstrate professional dispositions that are appropriate for teaching and managing instruction in diverse learning environments. • Candidates must successfully complete specialty examinations in their content area(s) prior to making application for state certification. • The Director of the School of Education may recommend re-evaluation of status for any candidate previously admitted to the program when evidence exists that the individual may be unsuitable for the teaching profession. • Only candidates meeting the Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements at the time of application are eligible to be recommended for certification. • In some instances, the University may award a degree although the candidate is not eligible to be recommended for teacher certification. Early Childhood Education PreK-4 The Early Childhood PreK-4 program develops skilled professionals who create developmentally appropriate curricula, instruction, and assessment; value children's cognitive, physical, and social well-being; and respect diversity. Gannon’s Early Childhood Education curriculum provides a solid foundation in development and learning theory as well as instruction in content areas including language and literacy, mathematics, physical activity, creative arts, social studies, and science. Gannon’s unique developmental field experiences provide a practical hands-on application of knowledge with a diverse population of young children across all socioeconomic and cultural levels. When combined with the Special Education PreK-8 curriculum, teacher candidates in the Early Childhood program will also be qualified to work with students with special needs who are in grades PreK-4. Middle Level 4-8 The Middle Level Grades 4-8 programs develop skilled practitioners who will improve the educational experiences of young adolescents by delivering curricula that are multifaceted and integrative. Gannon’s Grades 4-8 Middle Level Certification programs lead to a Bachelor of Science degree with certification in 13 possible areas. The curriculum provides extensive field-based experiences in both self-contained and content-specific classrooms in rural, urban, and suburban classrooms.