Program Testimonials

Lauren Fulcher

Alternative Certification Student 

It’s hard to even put into words how grateful I am to be a part of the UD Alternative Teacher Certification program. I left a 6-year career in marketing to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming an elementary teacher and to say I was nervous is an understatement. After researching many options to complete my post-baccalaureate certification, I met with the incredible faculty at UD and knew instantly it would be the best support system to achieve this dream of mine. They have helped me every single step of the way to ensure I feel confident in my abilities as a teacher. The one-on-one guidance has been invaluable, especially since I came from a marketing background with no teaching experience. They have encouraged me to tap into my unique skills and strengths and channel them into my methods of teaching. And one of my favorite parts of the program is how I am also able to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching at the same time. The Alternative Teacher Certification program is challenging in all the right ways because every single aspect of the program is built to make you a better teacher. I know my future students are going to benefit just as much as I am because of this experience.

Dr. Carmen Newstreet

Associate Professor of Education

It is both challenging and rewarding to work with our Alternative Teacher Certification candidates. Our future state-certified teachers present unique skill sets and a deep desire to hone their professional practice to ever higher standards. They are always bright and inquisitive, pushing their professors in class to meet their needs and challenging us to maintain increasingly high standards. The opportunity to assist them along this special journey is a joy, which increases our own appreciation of the wonder and beauty based in our liberal education, further communicated in the UD teacher education program.

Dr. Yoshiaki Nakazawa

Assistant Professor of Education

We are excited to work with you and help you pursue your professional and personal goals in becoming an excellent teacher. The program offers courses that are designed to provide the skills, knowledge, and in-school experience to become a teacher who can teach effectively and reflect deeply about the ways in which education can improve our society. What I really like about our program is that while the students can gain the practical knowledge and experience required for a career in teaching, they are also initiated into a global conversation--a dialogue that goes back over 2000 years about the ways that education can change individuals, communities, and societies for the better.