Mission

The Vision and Mission of the Ella Cline Shear School of Education

The vision of the Ella Cline Shear School of Education is to contribute, through the education of teachers, to the development of a democratic, humane society that values the contributions and accomplishments of all its citizens. Our vision of teacher education is embedded in the context of rigorous studies in the liberal arts and sciences and focused on democratic citizenship, leadership, and the examined life.

This vision grows out of and embodies the College’s tradition of collaborative, learning-centered education and our shared belief that the process of liberal education, taken in the broadest sense, is the most important activity in which human beings of all ages engage. With input from education faculty, representatives from liberal arts and sciences, staff, local teachers, local school administrators, teacher candidates, and college administrators, the vision of the School of Education is congruent with the mission and values of SUNY Geneseo.

In recognition of the changing demographic, cultural, social, and political contexts of schooling, the fundamental mission of the School of Education is to prepare future teachers to be reflective, critical thinkers, adept at problem solving, and committed to the development of communities of inquiry, to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn the skills necessary for a productive life and responsible citizenship. In other words, we seek to develop novice teachers who are committed to improving the life chances of their students by promoting active learning, valuing community involvement, being culturally and aesthetically responsive to their surroundings, and seeking excellence in teaching and learning. 

In partnership with colleagues in the college’s liberal arts and sciences departments and with professionals in both public and private schools, the School of Education is dedicated to the preparation of teachers who are comprehensively educated in the liberal arts and sciences; informed about political and social issues important to child advocacy; committed to the dispositions of professional collaboration and leadership; adept at using educational theory to inform their practice, and able to teach in ways that meet the needs of diverse populations. In short, we seek to educate future teachers who are committed to improving the lives of students through education.