Creating a Pipeline of Future Teachers

In an effort to increase the number of high-quality, culturally responsive teachers in Oregon and beyond, Lewis & Clark’s College of Arts and Sciences and its Graduate School of Education and Counseling are collaborating on the Teacher Pathways program. This partnership is designed specifically for our undergraduate students who dream of becoming educators. After successfully completing this 4+1 program, participants earn both a BA and an MAT—as well as licensure—in five years.

The Teacher Pathways program is open to both incoming and current undergraduates. While in Teacher Pathways, students meet with their Teacher Pathways advisor and enroll in undergraduate courses on education theory and practice. These courses are taught by graduate school faculty, allowing undergrads to establish relationships with the very professors whom they will learn from as graduate students. The Teacher Pathways program also provides participants with the unique opportunity to attend events focused on education alongside current MAT students and to experience a hands-on practicum at a local K-12 public school.

Another facet of the program is the Aspiring Educators Living-Learning Community in Copeland Hall on the undergraduate campus. Here, students live alongside their peers who are also interested in education careers. Members of this community have access to a variety of education-themed activities and networking opportunities.

As of fall 2023, there are more than 90 undergraduate students participating in the Teacher Pathways program. Since its kickoff in 2013, a total of 65 students have completed the 4+1 program. 

Liza Finkel, professor of teacher education in the graduate school, serves as the Teacher Pathways advisor.

“Our undergraduate and graduate students are really passionate about doing something good in the world and making a difference in their communities,” says Finkel. “Those interested in supporting this work share a similar perspective and are key to our success.”