Why Early Childhood Education at SBU?

We believe that pre-service teachers are best prepared when they learn how to teach in real classrooms. Thus, the undergraduate teacher education programs at St. Bonaventure University are primarily field-based. While our candidates are developing their knowledge and skills, they spend a significant amount of time interning and teaching in area schools that have joined our program as Professional Development Schools (PDS). During these PDS semesters, SBU students learn to teach in “risk-free” environments where they are mentored daily by program faculty.

Listen to What Our Graduates Say…..

“The Education Program at St. Bonaventure is an experience that words cannot begin to describe. It's a family. It's a journey. It's a passion. It's learning from people who truly care about teaching and about YOU! 

“Every time someone at my school asks, 'How did you know how to do that?' or 'Where did you learn that?' I always reply, 'I went to Bona's. They provide so many experiences there! It really is the best place on earth!' 

“No matter what challenge is given to me, I have the confidence to accomplish things in ways that go above and beyond what is expected. I wouldn't trade Bona's for anything!” 

Alichia King, '03, '04, kindergarten teacher at Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School 

I truly enjoyed my experience at St. Bonaventure University. As a non-traditional student I gained many things from the program. It allowed me to spend the necessary time that I needed to with my family as well as provided me with many wonderful experiences in the classroom at SBU and also at the different schools, completing my field work. 

As an Early Childhood major, I had the opportunity to intern at a child care center and completed a curriculum project to be implemented by the staff at the center. After graduating in May 2007, I was able to obtain a job teaching kindergarten at Washington West Elementary School in Olean, New York. 

Kim Gildemeyer, '08, majored in Early Childhood Education 

Kim says, “Early Childhood Education is a vital asset to today's society.  Any form of early intervention will create a spark and zest for learning in the minds of young children. Early Childhood educators provide students with a basis for their future learning.”  

Tonya Beardsely, '06 

Tonya says, “I value the amount of time spent in the classroom.  The St. Bonaventure Education program does a wonderful job of making sure we are prepared to enter our own classrooms with the confidence and knowledge necessary to become great teachers." 

SBU students explore ideas and discuss classroom practice with their faculty mentors as they transition from student to professional teacher. The program faculty are experienced elementary, early childhood and special education teachers themselves and they share their passion for teaching with SBU teacher education students.

Why choose SBU?  So that you, too, can become an extraordinary educator!