New Ed Programs At UHWO

Beginning in the spring 2014 semester, University of Hawaii West Oahu will offer two new programs in the Bachelor of Education degree. The new concentrations include middle level (grades 6-8) and secondary (grades 6-12) English and social studies education.

According to UHWO, the programs offer a strong liberal arts background for students aiming to specialize in these areas. They are designed to address the need for teachers in Central and Leeward Oahu, as well as throughout the state.

“UH West Oahu plays an important role in raising the educational capital of our state and providing degree programs that lead to high-demand careers,” said UHWO chancellor Rockne Freitas.

“Our new teacher education programs help to generate local teachers dedicated to the Central and Leeward Oahu communities they serve.”

In addition to the classroom curriculum, the programs also entail field-based preparation and service learning activities.

The program will culminate in a 15-week full-time professional student teaching semester. Students will be placed in area schools that include Kapolei Middle and High schools, Ewa Makai Middle, Campbell High, Nanakuli Intermediate and High, Wheeler Middle, Leilehua High and Waipahu Intermediate and High schools.

“Education Division faculty are extremely excited about implementing our new Middle-Level and Secondary education programs in English and Social Studies,” said Mary Heller, UHWO chairwoman of the Education Division.

“Interest is high among potential teacher candidates seeking to enter the teacher workforce, especially in Leeward and Central Oahu.

“We look forward to welcoming new education majors and providing high quality teacher preparation in the service of teaching and learning in grades 6-12, in addition to our established Elementary (K-6) program of study.”

For more information, visit uhwo.hawaii.edu/academics/degrees-and-certificates/bachelor-of-education.