Teaching

Overview

Teaching is challenging, rewarding and important work. As ever, our schools need good teachers — determined, confident teachers who respond to the needs of all students. Today’s classrooms include increasingly diverse learners, and the education program at Sweet Briar prepares graduates to effectively teach all students who enter their classrooms. Through a combination of rigorous and engaging coursework, individualized mentoring from the program faculty and extensive field experiences, you will graduate a highly qualified professional who will make a difference in the lives of children.

What is distinctive about studying education at Sweet Briar?

Beginning with the first education class, candidates will be immersed in the classroom environment through clinical experiences in local schools. Preservice teachers spend multiple hours per course in the classroom observing, working with teachers and students, and teaching their own lessons. Based on their goals, the education program matches candidates with teachers who are professional, helpful and focused on differentiated instruction. While establishing relationships with students and teachers, candidates create lesson plans and daily reflections, learn about school policies and gain professional experience.

• The Teaching program from Sweet Briar College also offers an add-on endorsement opportunity in special education (general curriculum K-12). The special education endorsement provides hands-on field experiences working with students with special needs in both inclusive and self-contained classrooms.
• M.A.T. students are paired with faculty members who have extensive training in mentoring preservice teachers and in differentiated curriculum and instruction.
• During the M.A.T. year, courses are offered in late afternoons and evenings to allow students to substitute-teach in local schools and “earn while they learn.”
• Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 47 other states, so candidates can earn their license in Virginia and be eligible to teach almost anywhere in the United States.
• Completion of the M.A.T. program means higher salary potential in most school districts throughout the country.