Middle School Education
Radford's Middle School Teacher Preparation Program provides a clear, in-depth focus on teaching early adolescents. Pre-service teachers are challenged to develop professional knowledge and skills and expand content knowledge during two intensive semesters in middle schools. Faculty members work closely with students.
Graduates of our program are recognized for:
- their understanding of the importance of multiple perspectives in a multicultural world
- their ability to use the backward design process in creating learning environments which meet the needs of diverse student populations
- their commitment to intellectual curiosity and on-going professional development
- their advocacy of technology as a tool to enhance learning in the classroom
- their expertise in implementing research-based practices across the curriculum
- their ability to develop connections among parents, school, and community
Progress sheets for Middle School Teacher Preparation Program can be found on the College of Education and Human Development Advising Resources page. Select the academic year and then choose Middle (6-8). More information may be obtained by visiting Radford University's catalog. Select the Middle School Education link.
Requirements
Requirements of the middle school educator include being able to develop appropriate relationships with students, plan and implement relevant instruction, assess student progress, and work collaboratively with parents, teachers, administrators, and students to ensure success.
Students in the Interdisciplinary Studies Middle School must choose a concentration in one of the following areas: English, mathematics, social studies, and science.
Requirements to enter the Middle School Teacher Preparation Program option include the following:
- Applicaiton and admission to the Teacher Education Program in spring of the junior year
- Completion of 52 semester hours of course work
- A minimum of 2.50 grade point average at Radford and a 2.50 grade point average on all college work attempted
- Successful completion of a departmental screening examination
- Pass the VCLA exam
- Pass one Praxis II Content area exams
Transfer students seeking admission to the Teacher Education Program must have at least a 2.50 grade point average on all work attempted at all institutions. Interdisciplinary Studies majors also must submit documentation of 50 hours of work with children in structured learning situations.
Advantages
Currently, the demand for licensed middle school teachers is greater than the supply. Candidates who are mobile have excellent job prospects. The middle school teacher preparation program at Radford University recognizes its role in developing culturally-responsive teachers who honor the strength and potential of the individual, the school, and the community who serve as agents of change. Middle school teachers should have the following characteristics:
- Positive self-concept
- Ability to relate well with others
- Flexible
- Resourcefulness
- Sense of humor
- Innovative nature
- Commitment to lifelong learning
Becoming a middle school teacher provides an opportunity to impact and challenge students in grades 6-8. Effective teaching begins with knowledge and appreciation of early adolescent development. Collaborating within a team allows the teacher to create a learning community which connects students and parents with the school and communicates caring and high expectations. In addition to having a strong background in at least two content areas, the teacher plans and implements interdisciplinary instruction.
Meet the Professor
Dr. Ann Mary Roberts
Professor
Contact for Middle School Education Program
Office: Peters Hall A037
Phone: 540-831-7119
Email: aroberts@radford.edu
Middle school is a life changing period for adolescents. Radford University’s middle school education program prepares future teachers by providing the opportunity for ample experience in the classroom. Teachers will leave the program equipped with all the necessary skills to tackle this exciting age group.
Alyson Gilbert, senior in the Middle School Teacher Preparation Program