Saint Xavier University's Education Division offers the Bachelor of Science degree in education through undergraduate programs of study that prepare students to assume teaching responsibilities in early childhood, elementary, middle, or secondary schools, earning a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. Such preparation integrates theory and clinical experiences in various institutions or agencies, enabling graduates to function effectively as humane, liberally educated professionals.
The Education Division prepares scholars, lifelong learners, leaders and reflective professionals dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. The logo of the Education Division incorporates the cross from the shield of Saint Xavier University to acknowledge the mission and strategic directions of the University and the core values from the founding Sisters of Mercy. Caring, capable and highly qualified faculty personify those attributes in the community of Saint Xavier University and in the profession of education and direct the candidates' progress in the acquisition of the relevant knowledge, skills and dispositions.
Programs of Study
The Education Division offers the following programs approved by the Illinois State Board of Education and accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE):
Early Childhood Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed to teach in birth to grade two classrooms with an additional ESL or Bilingual endorsement and Early Childhood Special Education Approval.
Elementary Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed to teach in self-contained elementary classrooms, first grade through grade six with an additional Reading Teacher endorsement.
Middle Level Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed to teach English language arts, general science, mathematics, or social science in grades 5 through 8.
Secondary Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed to teach biology, English language arts, mathematics or social science in grades 9 through 12 or art, music or Spanish in prekindergarten through grade 12.
Appeal Process for Denial to Candidacy in the Education Program or Student Teaching
An appeal process has been developed for students who are denied admission to the teacher education program or student teaching, or whose pursuit of program completion is believed by the student to be compromised. For further details, please refer to the Saint Xavier University Academic Policies and Procedures section of this catalog.
Dismissal from the Teacher Education Program
Candidates in the Education Division may be dismissed from a program for the following reasons: grade-point average (below 3.0), academic dishonesty, violation of professional dispositions, failure to successfully complete program benchmarks and results of the fingerprinting/criminal background investigation. Additional reasons not herein described may also result in dismissal.
Candidate Disposition Assessment
In an effort to better serve teacher candidates, the P-12 school children and the community the Education Division has implemented a Disposition Support Model. The professional dispositions of candidates are a critical component of development for emerging educators. Candidates are required to maintain appropriate professional dispositions on campus as well as during the field or practical experiences. Faculty and staff utilize evaluation tools to assess candidate dispositions and develop supportive interventions.
Grievance Policy/Procedures for Disposition Decisions
The Education Division follows the Saint Xavier University Grievance Process and the Dispositions Support Model Handbook for Initial Licensure Programs.
Change of Major
Current SXU students, who want to change majors to an education major, must meet with their advisor prior to changing majors.