Grade 1-8 Teacher Education

Director: Monika Sutherland

Director Emeritus: Michael Imes

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The grade 1-8 teacher certification at Great Lakes Waldorf Institute is a three-year part-time program focusing on philosophical, practical and artistic training for class teachers in grades 1-8. The program consists of three sessions each year: a summer intensive in July, fall courses and spring courses with additional fieldwork, practicum and final research project. 

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Graduates of this 450+ hour program receive a Waldorf Grades

Teaching Certificate recognized by the Association of Waldorf Schools of

North America (ASWNA).

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Curriculum and course content include a balance of the following areas:

• Child development and Waldorf education

• Waldorf philosophy and human development

• Contemplative work 

• Artistic activities for the classroom and for the educator

• Professional and social aspects of Waldorf education

• Fieldwork - observation, mentored teaching, practicum or internship in well-established Waldorf early childhood setting

• Action-research project combined with practicum

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This program enrolls in May, August and December.

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Coursework Overview