Naropa University Launches New Elementary Teacher Licensure Program for Undergraduate Students

BOULDER, Colo., May 31, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Naropa University is pleased to announce the launch of its Elementary Teacher Licensure program, which was recently approved by the Colorado State Board of Education. This first-in-the-nation, fully accredited, contemplative teacher licensure program is based on mindfulness practices and rigorous academics. The program will provide graduates with the credentials required to teach Kindergarten through 6^th grade in any public or private school in the state of Colorado, and potentially in all 50 states, and includes a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse endorsement.

Today, there are numerous professional development courses that seek to engender mindful teachers. At Naropa, our teacher candidates are steeped in contemplative pedagogies integrated into course content throughout their university attendance–in every class, in every major. This is what makes our program unique. Built upon a strong foundation of contemplative practice and pedagogy, Naropa's Elementary Teacher Licensure program incorporates the cutting-edge curriculum and personal skill development to create authentic, resilient teachers. Graduates enter their classrooms grounded in content, cultural responsiveness, and mindful practices—ready to make learning come alive for their students.

The teacher licensure program can be added to any undergraduate major at Naropa and, depending on the major, a student can graduate in 4 – 4.5 years.

Students will learn to:

• Teach critical thinking skills that also cultivate insight
• Integrate the arts and creativity into daily lessons
• Add deeper dimensions of learning to required courses
• Deepen contemporary and holistic best practices in education
• Nurture student well-being through social and emotional learning

From the very first course, our teacher candidates engage with students in real classrooms. They are coached and mentored from master teachers in both contemplative and traditional teacher practices, while developing deep connections with faculty invested in their success and long-term well-being.

About Naropa University (www.naropa.edu): Located in Boulder, Colorado, Naropa University is a private, liberal arts institution offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Naropa University is a leader in contemplative education, an approach to learning and teaching that integrates Eastern wisdom traditions and traditional Western scholarship. Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 

Naropa University Contact:
Barbara Catbagan
Associate Professor &Chair, Contemplative Education
Naropa University
Phone: 303-245-4834
e-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Naropa University

Related Links

http://www.naropa.edu