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Messages received by Education Division faculty from recent graduates

"I have been teaching a year and a half in a kindergarten classroom.  I love the children I have in my class.  I just wanted to let you know that Pitt Johnstown definitely got me ready for teaching.  My principal even commented on how well my professors did with getting me geared up to teach!  I just wanted to pass on that information.  Great job!"  Michelle Rydbom (Felix), class of 2005

"I started out the school year with a second grade long-term sub in one of the elementary schools in Baldwin, where I am from.  About five weeks into the school year, they decided to open up another second grade and fourth grade class in the school because class sizes were so large.  I went through two interviews and got the second grade full-time position in the school.  I could not be happier.  I had to open up a new classroom and they took five students from each of the existing classrooms to create my new room.  Everything is going great and it is amazing having a full-time position.  Thanks again for all your help during student teaching!"  Danielle Larkin, Class of 2006

"I was really fortunate in my hiring experience.  It began with my student teaching semester at Penn Cambria.  Towards the end of the semester my co-op expressed his pleasure with my teaching ability and told me that he was recommending me to the superintendent as a new hire.  After graduation, I placed about six application packets throughout the area and had an interview with Tyrone Area School District.  I was hired as a part-time economics teacher at the high school.  A week later, as I was getting materials together for that job, my co-op called me informing me that Penn Cambria was hiring for Social Studies positions and that I was to submit my application packet.  A week later I was interviewed by seven people and did very well.  At the interview they asked me lots of questions concerning integrating technology in the classroom and about universally designed classrooms concerning special education and inclusion.  A question that caught me by surprise concerned how to deal with students of varying socio-economic status.  I just took a moment and then replied.  I was called a few days later asking me if I would reply "Yes" is I were offered the job.  The Board approved me and I start in one week."  Carl Newfield, Class of 2006

"I want to share with you the good news that I got hired only two short weeks after graduation last Spring as a full-time high school English teacher.  I just finished up my first nine weeks at Berlin Brothersvalley and I am loving every minute of it.  I want to thank you for helping me prepare for interviews and teaching me how to make a teaching portfolio.  I wouldn't be where i am today without the knowledge that you shared with me.  Thanks a million!"  Jill Baker, Class of 20007

"I just wanted to drop you a line as I'm nearing the end of my first year of teaching!!  I moved to Fredericksburg, Virginia last fall and we have been teaching down here all year.  I have a third grade class and while some days can be stressful (they take so many more standardized tests here than in PA!!) I'm loving it.  In fact, this past week I was chosen to be the new teacher of the year at my school!  It is such a huge honor because there are about 10 new teachers this year at our school.  Now I am in a "contest" against all of the other new teachers for the county level.  Anyway I just wanted to say "hi" and let you in on my good news!!"  Julie Snyder, Class of 2007

"I have enjoyed all of my classes at UPJ, but the most helpful classes were those that I took once I got into the Upper Level.  It is so exciting learning how to teach and putting those methods into practice."  Stephanie Tieren, Class of 2008

Comments submitted on anonymous evaluations by students in their final semester before graduation

"I believe UPJ has established a high quality education program.  I have not regretted attending and receiving my degree from UPJ.  The program employs highly qualified and very knowledgeable professors who always go the extra mile for their students.  As well, they create a very comfortable learning environment.  I would recommend UPJ to future Education students."

"I think it is a great program.  When I hear about people going elsewhere for El Ed, I think: "Why aren't they going to UPJ?"  I think it is great that our observations/practicums are built into the schedule.  I think that the Education professors are wonderful."

"I think overall the program is quite good.  The courses were challenging and stressful, but the professors really push you to do your very best.  Each professor has been very caring about his/her students, both academically and personally.  I feel very well prepared by this program.  I had no trouble passing the Praxis tests with the knowledge I gained in class."

"I actually was surprised at how prepared I felt going into my student teaching.  I feel that the courses here at the university prepared me both in knowledge and in methods very adequately."

"When I began my student teaching experience I felt as though I was ready to take on the challenge.  It's a wonderful program.  I would recommend it to any aspiring teacher.  All of the professors are very kind, knowledgeable, and helpful."

"I would evaluate UPJ's education program as Excellent!  Great job!  All of you should be proud of the great job everyone did.  You have my applause."

"I am very pleased with the program.  I felt that I was more prepared to student teach because of all of the field practicum experiences in a real classroom compared to many of my friends who are Education majors at other colleges.  I feel that faculty here are well educated and friendly.  They were very helpful throughout my college career."

"This program is top notch.  I feel so prepared to handle my own classroom.  The professors are nice and caring.  They are always ready to give you ideas.  I am so happy that I am receiving my degree from UPJ."

"I planned on transferring to a school closer to Pittsburgh, but I stayed because of the program.  I am thrilled I stayed.  The program is wonderful and I learned a lot."

"Excellent!  Everyone says that UPJ is the best place to receive an Education degree."

And this from one of our co-operating teachers

"I would like to thank UPJ for allowing their student teachers to come to North Star. Over the several years that I have participated in this program, I have found all of the students to be well prepared for their assignments. They are always very professional. They are well educated in the standards and anchors, which are being taught in our schools. They provide a wealth of knowledge through many different resources to our students. The students enjoy them and their different techniques of teaching. They provide me with many lessons that I can implement into my classroom. Hopefully, I am also able to share valuable lessons with them that I have obtained through my many years of teaching. It's always a pleasure working with the faculty of UPJ. Once again, thank you for the opportunity you have given me to share with your future teachers."  Connie Feathers, Third Grade teacher, North Star Central Elementary School

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