The education department has structured goals that are in close alignment with the college's Strategic Plan.  We also recognize the importance of formulating goals that reflect the changing needs of our community partners in education. Overall, the college's mission, vision, and goals guide our work and interactions each semester. 

During the past year, we have found some success in our goal of supporting students enrolled in gateway courses.  However, one thing has become clear--students taking gateway courses aren't the only ones who need academic and advising support--all students do.  So, as a response to this learning, we hope to continue to provide academic and advising support to all education students.

The education department is an excellent example of where CPL might work (particularly concerning students enrolling in our Early Childhood Development and Care AAS and certificate programs). For that reason, we hope to investigate awarding CPL to early childhood workers interested in enrolling in our early childhood programs.

Perhaps one of the most valuable parts of Education students' experiences at the college involves their "real world" classroom experiences both as observers and as active participants in local area childcare and classroom settings.  It remains a goal that we will collaborate with local area early childhood centers and K-12 school districts to explore opportunities for increased collaboration and partnership that will benefit employers and students.

Finally, it remains critical that our future teachers are aware of all opportunities that relate to their teacher training. For that reason, our department hopes to increase awareness and enhance marketing related to our articulations (particularly with Pace).