Justice, Community and Leadership: Educational Specialist Teacher Education, BA
Do you believe that everyone deserves a high-quality education?
If you have a calling for teaching children with disabilities and learning differences, this JCL program will prepare for a successful and rewarding teaching career. Along with gaining a comprehensive understanding of interconnected systems of injustice and oppression, you will graduate with a preliminary Education specialist Credential (in addition to your BA).
You’ll have numerous opportunities to work alongside communities and organizations, at home and abroad, to tackle real-world injustices. Throughout your journey, you’ll hone your critical inquiry, adaptive and systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, all valuable skills in the new economy.
CURRICULUM
Earn an JCL Education Specialist Teacher Education, BA and a Single-Subject Teaching Credential at Saint Mary's in just four years through our Single Subject Teaching Credential Integrated Pathway!
What can you do with a degree in JCL: Educational Specialist?
A JCL concentration in Educational Specialist prepares you to teach and support K–12 students with disabilities. You’ll learn inclusive teaching strategies, behavior support, assessment, and how to work closely with families and school teams. (*Some careers may require extra certification or graduate study)
Special Education Teacher (Mild/Moderate Support Needs)
Design differentiated instruction, manage IEPs, and deliver services across inclusive and resource settings
RSP/Resource Specialist Teacher
Provide targeted pull-out/push-in academic interventions and progress monitoring aligned to IEP goals
Inclusion/Co-Teaching Specialist
Coordinate accommodations and co-plan with general educators to support access to grade-level curricula
IEP Case Manager
Lead multi-disciplinary teams, write compliant IEPs, track data, and ensure service delivery and timelines
Behavior Interventionist (BT/Registered Behavior Technician–track)
Implement behavior plans, collect ABC data, and collaborate on Positive Behavior Supports (PBIS)
Assistive Technology Specialist (entry-level)
Support selection and training for low- and mid-tech tools that improve access, communication, and learning
Transition Coordinator (Secondary)
Develop work-based learning and post-secondary transition plans, connecting students to community resources
MTSS/Intervention Coordinator (entry-level)
Organize tiered academic/behavior supports, facilitate data cycles, and align interventions with school goals
Saint Mary's Testimonials
“During my undergraduate studies I majored in Justice, Community, and Leadership on the Teachers for Tomorrow track. My graduate studies were done at SMC as well in the Masters of Education program. Both programs provided many opportunities to connect with knowledgeable professionals in an intimate educational environment. All of the lessons I learned during my five years have been applicable to my life and career as a teacher.”
Kaydee Valliere, Class of 2017
