Careers: Teaching/degree

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Question
Does it matter what college you get your Teaching degree ? When you get considered for a job do they look at the college you graduated from and is online college degrees looked at poorly for example Western Governors U ? I have 2 sons finishing thier AA and we are considering UCF in Florida or possibly going back to NY and they would have to take online courses like Western Governors.What is there best chance for succsess based on your expertise ? Thank You for your time.

Answer
Dear Jav,

The most important part of a college (in relation to becoming a teacher) is whether it is accredited, so the student can get credentialed properly.  I have never heard of Western Governors University, so I can't make a call about its accreditation.  I don't think most public school principals are particularly focused on making sure new teachers come from an ivy league college or anything.  They just want to make sure the teacher is legally entitled to teach in that state.  After that, they are concerned about what the new teacher can do in the classroom, how he feels about kids, how he fits in with the rest of the staff and all the other aspects that promise a good teacher.  

Best of Luck to your sons,
Bonnie

Careers: Teaching

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Bonnie Shimmin

Expertise

I can answer questions about teaching and learning in grades K-8, having taught all those grades. As a former principal I can discuss techniques and responsibilities in administration of public schools. I am especially familiar with California laws and educational history. I have no personal knowledge or experience with home schooling or private schools.

Experience

Public School Teacher in grades K-8: All grade levels - specializing in English and Social Sciences. Specialist in Gifted and Talented Education. Specialist in Categorical Program Evaluation. Administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal) in elementary (K-6) and middle schools (6-8).

Organizations
Retired Principals Association UCLA Alumni Association

Publications
"What if...?" In-frequently Asked Questions by Principals "My Brain Makes Learning Fun: Gifted Students Speak Out" Vols 1 and 2 Yearly Categorical Program Evaluation Reports

Education/Credentials
B.A. from UCLA in English with a minor in Social Sciences. M.A. from California Polytechnic University in Education, specializing in Instructional Technology and Media CA Elementary Credential - Life CA Secondary Credential - Life (English & Social Sciences) CA Administrative Credential

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