The College of Education is deeply rooted in the rich history of the University of Southern Maine, which originated in 1878 as the Gorham Normal School for the preparation of teachers with a strong foundation in the norms of pedagogy and curriculum. Today, the College continues and extends this tradition by offering over 30 undergraduate and graduate programs to prepare highly qualified teachers, educational leaders, and mental and behavioral health professionals.
Mission
The College of Education is committed to creating an inclusive culture of collaboration, service, and inquiry to prepare teachers, educational leaders, and mental and behavioral health professionals dedicated to promoting the learning and well-being of individuals across the lifespan.
Vision
Through the integration of teaching, scholarship, and service, the College of Education aims to advance innovative, research-informed, and equity-driven practices and policies in education and mental and behavioral health. We aspire to prepare diverse and civically engaged graduates to lead transformational change in our communities.
Guiding Principles, Values, and Commitments
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
We believe that all people have the capacity to learn and the right to access educational and mental and behavioral health supports that enable them to thrive. We commit to delivering accessible, culturally relevant curricula; cultivating learning environments that actively invite and celebrate culturally and linguistically diverse perspectives; and engaging in advocacy to uplift diverse voices, protect human rights, and facilitate genuine belonging. We prepare graduates who demonstrate cultural humility, the skills to engage in culturally sustaining professional practices, and a commitment to enact social justice and uphold equitable systems in our schools and communities.
Community and Collaboration
We believe in the value of human relationships and the principles of democracy, including participatory decision-making and constructive dialogue. We commit to fostering caring and collaborative learning environments, integrating multiple perspectives to improve learning and decision-making, and establishing reciprocal partnerships with our schools and communities. We prepare graduates who are committed to civic engagement and serve as active contributors within their professional communities.
Responsiveness and Relevance
We believe in being responsive to the strengths and needs of all students and communities. We commit to offering flexible programs that address local needs and to making what we teach both visible and relevant by emphasizing applications of theory and research during clinical experiences. We prepare open-minded graduates who are critical thinkers and creative stewards of their professions.
Inquiry and Reflective Practice
We believe that critical inquiry and self-reflection drive continuous professional growth and effective practice. We commit to nurturing reflective learning environments and encouraging critical questioning to promote academic excellence and the ethical application of theory and research to practice. We prepare graduates who demonstrate intellectual humility and curiosity, collaborative problem-solving skills, and commitments to ethical, evidence-based practice and lifelong learning.