The purpose of the education specialist degree program is to prepare graduates to effectively lead schools and school districts in ways that will ensure successful student achievement. This concentration meets USF, state and national standards for preparation of superintendents, curriculum directors and supervisors. Student Learning Outcomes: 1. The student as a servant leader will demonstrate the compassion of Jesus Christ by creating a caring educational community in which each individual may achieve intellectual and personal growth. 2. The student will create a compelling, sustainable personal and organizational vision and purpose. 3. The student will understand how to influence change and manage educational systems that are part of a larger context designed to increase student achievement.
accredited K-12 school, one year of which includes classroom teaching experience or direct services to students.* •
aster’s degree from a regionally accredited college or M university.
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Minimum 3.5 G.P.A. from master’s degree work.*
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T hree completed USF recommendation forms that address the applicant’s potential as a leader of a school district.
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Internet and email access.
*Provisional matriculation may be allowed if the asterisked requirements above are not met at the time of application to a program. Provisional admission is determined by the Director of Graduate Programs in Education and students will be advised of any certification limitations and additional requirements.
Degree Requirements for the Ed.S. in Educational Administration/Superintendent 4. The student will understand and communicate a clear vision Program of effective teaching and learning.
5. The student will understand the necessity of working closely with all stakeholder groups to stay focused on an articulated vision of student achievement. 6. The student will understand the importance of his or her role as an educator of school board members in working collaboratively with board members within appropriate board functions and parameters. 7. The student will understand the importance of encouraging staff to grow professionally in ways that support and improve student achievement. 8. The student will be proactive and influence the direction of state policies and the effectiveness of professional associations. 9. The student will understand the importance of developing a comprehensive assessment approach to student, staff and program evaluation leading to student and school success. 10. The student will embrace his or her role as a leader committed to improving the organization, implementing effective operational plans, managing financial resources, and utilizing technology to enable a viable curriculum for all students. The education specialist degree program is designed for school administrators who have full-time jobs. Students accepted into the program will take coursework in a prescribed sequence. Class sessions occur during both the academic year and summer term and include supervised internship experiences throughout the program. Courses offered during the academic year are delivered through a combination of Saturday classes held once a month on the USF campus along with online components for off-campus participation between class sessions and, in some cases, evening classes.
A candidate’s achievement of initial district-level leadership competencies is demonstrated through successful completion of a written comprehensive exam at the end of designated coursework. For the initial plan of study, comprehensive exams follow five specific courses in the program sequence. Upon successful completion of these five courses and the comprehensive exam, the student becomes eligible for the 10-year endorsement for superintendent as specified in the administrative rules of South Dakota. To complete the program and earn the advanced degree, the student must complete five additional courses and also submit a professional portfolio, complete internship requirements and pass the evaluation process at the completion of the required 30 semester hours of coursework. While the education specialist degree is intended to be completed as a cohort within a two-year timeframe, the actual completion of the program will depend on the student entry date, coursework offerings and the student's personal and professional schedules. Required courses: ❏ EDU 600 Introduction to District-Level Leadership ❏ EDU 615 Technology Applications for Districts ❏ EDU 640 Curriculum and Assessment ❏ EDU 625 Intergovernmental Relationships ❏ EDU 620 School Finance
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Admission Criteria
Upon successful completion of the five courses listed above, students must successfully complete a comprehensive written exam to earn the 10-year endorsement for superintendent as specified in the Administrative Rules of South Dakota. ❏ EDU 645 Administration of Special Education 3 ❏ EDU 650 Educational Statistics 3 ❏ BUS 510 Managerial Communications 3 ❏ BUS 520 Managing Organizational Dynamics 3 ❏ BUS 558 Current Issues in Management 3
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Total 30 semester hour program for degree completion.
Three years of verified experience on a valid certificate in an
educational specialist
UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS
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