Above: Dr. Karyn Ward, Associate Director of Field Experiences, instructing students in the Teacher Preparation Program.
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Christopher Newport University’s Teacher Preparation Program was recognized with the prestigious Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement Award. The honor was awarded by the program’s accrediting body, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
The award highlights the University’s success in producing future teachers who have not only mastered teaching methods and subject matters, but who are also ready to step into their classrooms and have an immediate impact.
According to Dr. Jean Filetti, director of CNU’s Teacher Preparation Program, “The Murray Award is a tremendous honor that acknowledges CNU’s Teacher Preparation Program for using evidence-based and data-driven analysis in preparing the next generation of educators. Our graduates enter the classroom with solid content knowledge and the instructional expertise to ensure students are engaged in learning and make appropriate academic progress.”
Only 22 teacher prep programs in the nation received this honor. In order to be selected, institutions had to achieve accreditation from CAEP without any required improvements. Schools were also required to demonstrate that they offer students a top quality, fully accountable teacher prep program.
“These providers are committed to preparing their candidates to make a positive difference in the lives of all K-12 students as soon as they enter the classroom,” said Yuhang Rong, chair of the CAEP Board of Directors. “The Murray Leadership Recognition highlights their dedication to continuous improvement, accountability, and quality through purposeful use of evidence.”
Christopher Newport advisors work closely with students to map out both coursework and field experience. The University’s partnerships in the community offer valuable teaching experiences close to campus where students can tutor or become substitute teachers.
Students interested in pursuing a teaching career can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (BAEd) or follow Christopher Newport’s unique five-year plan, completing their bachelor’s degree and then a final year of graduate-level professional courses leading to the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in the following areas: Art, Biology, Chemistry, Elementary Education, English, ESL, History/Social Science, Math, Music (either choral or instrumental), Physics, or Spanish. For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree, CNU also offers the MAT as a stand-alone graduate program that can be completed in as little as one year.