The Foundations of Teacher Education associate degree program prepares you to engage with students of diverse ages and varying ability levels while operating under the guidance and supervision of a licensed teacher. You will be well-equipped for a fulfilling career as a paraprofessional or educational assistant, offering invaluable support services to school-age students. While this program prepares graduates to serve in a variety of educational contexts, it places a primary emphasis on roles in elementary and middle-level schools.
Graduates of this program possess the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective instructional strategies, enabling you to assist students with a wide array of academic tasks, including mathematics, science, reading, and writing assignments, in addition to other instructional activities. You will be adept at monitoring student progress, providing individualized support, facilitating small group activities, and offering one-on-one tutoring. Moreover, you'll play an integral role in enhancing the classroom environment by contributing to classroom displays, aiding students with computer and media-related tasks, and overseeing various classroom and school events.
Western's Foundations of Teacher Education program is fully compliant with Title I requirements and fulfills the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for paraprofessionals. Furthermore, graduates of this program have the opportunity to transfer to several universities offering bachelor degree programs in Elementary Education or Special Education.
To view the Foundations of Teacher Education program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
Career Opportunities
Instructional Assistant
Special Education Paraprofessional
Early Education Teacher
Teacher Assistant
Program Outcomes
Demonstrate instructional support strategies for content areas
Implement developmentally appropriate practices to foster learning
Adapt instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners
Use proactive classroom management techniques
Perform professional responsibilities
Incorporate the reflective process to promote professional growth
Admissions Requirements
Additional Requirements
- High School or GED/HSED Transcript
To enroll in the Foundations of Teacher Education Associate Degree program, first apply for admission to the College, then complete a background check. You can find the link to the background check document below:
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
