At Luther, we prepare teachers who are passionate about what they do and are committed to their vocation. As such, we want to make sure that students experience schools from the "teacher’s side of the desk” before they apply to the Teacher Education Program (TEP).

If you decide to come to Luther and have an interest in education, you’ll have an opportunity to explore what it’s like to be a teacher during your first year. That’s right! You will spend your first January Term observing and assisting in a classroom in the Decorah and surrounding area. You will have an opportunity to select a grade level of your choice and the Education Department will connect you with a classroom teacher. You will be in the schools three days a week. When you are on campus during the week, you’ll reflect on your experience and meet other students in seminar.

This is a unique opportunity to “try on” teaching before you commit to a profession in education. We  encourage you to make the most of this experience.

For more details about the exploratory practicum, visit the J-Term EDUC 185/215 page for current students.