The student teaching semester is a critical component to your development as a teacher. Using their strong relationships with partner schools and understanding each student's goals, Grove City College faculty will work to align your specific experience with a school and cooperating teacher according to your personality, teaching style, and interest in either city, suburban, or rural districts. Throughout your student teaching experience, you will be supervised by one of our full-time faculty, who serve as mentors and guides throughout your studies. Faculty focus on teaching skills and classroom management and will observe each student teacher at least six times in the classroom. After each observational visit, your professor will meet with you to discuss the effectiveness of your lesson and suggest areas of improvement. You can expect to meet regularly with your supervisor for developmental coaching in one-on-one and small group settings. Student teaching lasts 14 weeks, allowing you to gain experience across certification and grade bands.
Due to the work of the Office of Education Career Services – dedicated specifically to the education department – Grove City College education majors find themselves in high demand. Many secure employment before graduation, and if you are like 95% of 2023 education majors, you will be employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Many education majors become certified and licensed teachers in Pennsylvania and other states, while other graduates take unique teaching positions in missions work or other fields. Still others go on to pursue graduate degrees in education and related fields.
No matter your path, you will be mentored and supported in your search for that first position. The Office of Education Career Services will help you identify the opportunities you want to pursue after graduation and assist you in completing the required steps to meet your goals.
In addition to serving current students, the Office of Education Career Services is available to alumni for support throughout their careers. Our mission is to help you live out your mission, and we are eager to support your professional and personal growth.