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New education bachelor’s program debuts at Lone Star College-Creekside Center
Teaching can be a deeply rewarding profession that provides purpose and a chance to have a positive impact. As the world changes, so does the training that goes into preparing teachers to have a basic understanding of how people learn and develop. To help students achieve their goal of leading in the classroom, Lone Star College has developed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Teaching. Designed to support students from day one, the program integrates academic theory with immediate, immersive training leading to greater success. CLASSROOM READY FROM DAY ONE The new program teaches academic and social skills to students at the elementary school level. Launching this fall at LSC-Creekside Center, the hybrid program combines flexible coursework with hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for modern teaching from day one. The program includes classroom-style learning labs, mentorship from experienced educators and opportunities for students to engage in real school environments early in their education. They will learn comprehensive and practical approaches to early childhood education, integrating theory with hands-on experience to develop highly competent and reflective educators. WHAT IS THE DAILY EXPERIENCE? For students, that means gaining classroom experience much earlier than in a traditional teacher preparation program.
Instead of waiting until their final semester to student- teach, students dive into practical training. Additionally, students will gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and clinical teaching, preparing them for careers as early childhood and elementary educators. LSC-Creekside Center is renovating two specialized labs into immersive classrooms that mirror a modern educator’s daily encounters. This allows candidates to practice classroom management in real time, taking away the intimidation of transitioning from college student to classroom leader. WHY EXPOSURE MATTERS The program combines the latest research and best practices in early childhood and elementary education, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as early childhood and elementary teachers, program directors, instructional coordinators and other various leadership roles in educational settings. By fostering a strong foundation in best practices and advanced teaching methodologies, the Early Childhood Education and Teaching program encourages students to shape the future of early childhood education in our communities. "My mother was an educator, and she taught me to be firm but fair," said Dr. Jerica Nickerson, LSC-Creekside Center, dean of Instruction. "We want our students to bring that balance of critical thinking and empathy into local schools." VETERAN MENTORSHIP AND LOCAL CONNECTIONS To ensure student success, Lone Star College has full-time faculty professors with 20 to 25 years of real-world classroom experience.
unique and extensive fieldwork and practical training opportunities. FLEXIBLE PATHWAYS, MULTIPLE ENTRY POINTS The program is designed for today’s working professionals and offers hybrid and online courses to accommodate varying schedules and commitments, making it easier for students to balance their education with other responsibilities. Small classroom sizes—limited to 28 students per semester— will make sure students receive individualized attention. An eight-week associate degree track at LSC-Creekside Center feeds directly into the bachelor’s program, allowing working professionals to maximize their time. The Early Childhood Education and Teaching offers a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of traditional educator preparation programs, making it an affordable and accessible option for students interested in joining this important profession. LEARNING IN A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT LSC’s mission is to provide life-changing educational opportunities that help individuals get from where they are to where they want to be. We’re committed to making you ready to succeed in the classroom. Fall enrollment is open at Lone Star College. LSC-Creekside Center students benefit from dedicated campus initiatives, including: • The Engagement Hour: A break from noon to 1 p.m. for networking, collaborating with professors and accessing campus resources. • Professional Mentorship Days: LinkedIn Days and social media navigation training to build a digital footprint. • Industry exposure: Guest visits from local educational and community leaders providing career path guidance. Alternative teacher certification pathways are also available for degree holders, ensuring a clear route forward for every prospective educator. The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel, with the Community Impact’s Storytelling team, using information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team. To see more storytelling go to communityimpact.com/storytelling
LSC-Creekside Center sits adjacent to a local elementary school which will allow students to observe working educators navigating daily challenges in real time and provide students with valuable networking and employment opportunities, ensuring strong industry relationships that can lead to future career success. Students are encouraged to leave the classroom and explore the nearby campus to become involved in practical scenarios, creating
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