Literacy Studies and Elementary Education

Stevenson Hall 2100

https://education.sonoma.edu/departments/lsee

For faculty information, please see Faculty or the Literacy Studies faculty web page.

Programs Offered

California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (Basic generalist teaching authorization typical for elementary teachers, though also appropriate for middle and high school teachers working in self-contained classrooms, teaching most or all subjects)

California Reading and Literacy Added Authorization (RLAA)- (Tier 1 advanced authorization for teachers pursuing roles working with students who experience difficulties with literacy/reading, supporting classroom teachers, and assessing and monitoring student progress)

California Added Bilingual Authorization (BILA) in Spanish (Added Authorization for teachers who are proficient in English and Spanish and who want to work in bilingual/ dual-language/dual-immersion settings, tk-12. This is an added authorization that can be pursued concurrently with a multiple subject, single subject, or special education credential. It can also be pursued after the preliminary credential has been obtained.)

Master of Arts in Education with a Emphasis in Reading and Language (Graduate degree for tk-12 grade teachers who seek advanced understanding in literacy & language education, biliteracy, assessment and teaching, and curriculum development. Many teachers in the literacy and language emphasis within the MA program become reading intervention teachers, curriculum specialists, literacy coaches, etc.)

The Department of Literacy Studies and Elementary Education is committed to meeting the needs of California students in Transitional Kindergarten through upper elementary and beyond through its work with prospective and in-service teachers. Our Multiple Subject Teaching Credential Program offers a robust professional preparation for initial licensure. Our RLAA and Reading and Language concentration within the MA (Education) Program, grounded in both theory and practice, are designed to meet the needs of teachers at all levels interested in advanced studies in literacy education. Our added bilingual authorization (BILA) program focuses upon the research, theory, and practice related to working with emergent bilinguals and dual-language learners in both English and Spanish. Upon completing our practice-based programs, our teacher candidates and teachers will have both breadth and depth of knowledge about teaching and learning and will be capable of making informed decisions in diverse settings.

The University and school districts within our service area view teacher education as a shared responsibility. The diversity of California’s school population including culture, social class, gender, language, and race is a significant focus of our coursework and field experiences. Through coursework, the University provides opportunities to study and investigate sound, research-based approaches to teaching, learning, assessment, and curriculum while our school partners provide the classrooms for field experiences including student teaching. Collaboration between University-based teacher educators and school district teachers provides a strong foundation for the programmatic goal of excellence in the service of California’s students.

Note: Program requirements change periodically, and current information may not be available in this catalog. For more detailed information on credentials and other education programs please see the University’s special bulletins and the School of Education’s current program brochures and policy statements, or visit the Education website.

Programs

Masters

Education with an Emphasis in Reading and Language, MA

Credential

California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Added Authorization