Student teacher Cristian Aguilar at Gunnison High School assisting students
Education

Community

Transformative teaching: hands-on community experiences.

Student teacher Alyeska Riker helping students at the Gunnison Lake School

Western’s Education program prepares you for the classroom with hands-on experiences that bridge theory and practice. The year-long clinical residency places you in K-12 schools across Colorado, combining online coursework with in-classroom training—often leading to full-time job offers.

You’ll also develop lesson plans for local classrooms, using Edthena software to review recordings and refine your teaching skills with expert feedback. The Historical and Current Case Study Project deepens your understanding of school districts where you aspire to work, while the Earth Week Service Project connects you with the community through environmental initiatives.

These experiences ensure you graduate as a skilled educator and engaged leader, ready to make an impact.

From Classroom to Career: Real-World Experience for Future Educators

Participating in Western’s Education program is more than just learning theory—it’s about gaining real-world teaching experience that sets you apart in the field. From lesson planning to classroom engagement, you’ll develop practical skills that prepare you for a successful teaching career.

Gain Hands-On Teaching Experience
Develop Effective Lesson Plans
Build Research and Advocacy Skills
Engage with the Community
Prepare for Your Career

Gain Hands-On Teaching Experience

Through the year-long clinical residency, you’ll teach in K-12 schools across Colorado, applying what you learn in real classrooms. This immersive experience often leads to full-time job placements.

Student teacher Taylor Martin helping a student with class work

Develop Effective Lesson Plans

You’ll create 30- to 40-minute lesson plans for local classrooms and refine your teaching techniques using Edthena software. Reviewing recorded lessons with instructor feedback helps you grow as an educator.

Build Research and Advocacy Skills

The Historical and Current Case Study Project gives you insight into a school district where you hope to work, preparing you to navigate educational challenges and advocate for student success.

Engage with the Community

The Earth Week Service Project connects you with local environmental initiatives, reinforcing the role of science education in driving positive change.

Prepare for Your Career

These hands-on experiences, combined with mentorship from faculty and local educators, ensure you graduate with the confidence, skills, and network needed to launch your teaching career.

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Students getting classwork help from their student teacher Taylor Martin

Want to be part of the story?

At Western, students dive into hands-on learning that’s practical, impactful, and built for the real world. Check out the different schools and departments to get involved. 

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