Advanced Studies in Teaching and Learning
Program Description
The Advanced Studies in Teaching and Learning (ASTL) program is for teachers and other educators with one or more years of teaching or education-related experience who want to continue to grow professionally. It should be noted that this is not an initial license program. The program offers advanced study in Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOL) content areas, cohort classes, an innovative schedule, and the use of technology. The courses, aligned with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), http://www.nbpts.org/, help teachers think and practice like board-certified teachers. The program:
- Develops research-focused, student-centered teacher leaders whose teaching practice is aligned with the Five Core Propositions of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
- Develops teachers' expertise in a content area of choice that will deepen their professional knowledge and identify them as team and building leaders.
The ASTL program includes a 12-credit education Core and an 18- or 21-credit Concentration in:
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Math
- Foreign Language - French
- Foreign Language - Spanish
- History
- Advanced International Baccalaureate
- Literacy: K-12 Reading Specialist
- Literacy: PK-12 Classroom
- Middle/Secondary Mathematics
- Physical Education
- Science,
- Special Education
- Teacher Leadership
- or an individualized Concentration.
The literacy: K-12 reading specialist concentration is also available as a stand-alone graduate certificate. The Literacy K-12 Reading Specialist Concentration provides coursework leading to a VA Reading Specialist license.
The ASTL program leads to a master's of education degree in Curriculum and Instruction and must be completed within six years of admission.
News and Announcements
Gail Ritchie, a National Board Certified Teacher and ASTL instructor
Gail Ritchie, a National Board Certified Teacher and ASTL instructor, is highlighted in this Fairfax County Public Schools video on the role of instructional coaches in the school setting.
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