This course is designed to familiarize students with the specialized laws and legal systems that govern children and adolescents. Discussion will focus on society's efforts to balance competing interests and goals. The course provides the chance to explore laws and processes that affect children and adolescents as they interact with the court system, their caregivers, families and society at large.

This seminar supplements the student teaching experience and provides a transition to the profession of teaching for those students admitted to the early childhood certification option. Students must apply during the spring semester of their junior year to be considered for the early childhood certification option.

This course takes an ecological approach to emphasize the critical value of effective family-school-community partnerships in enhancing the education of young children. Models of family-school-community partnerships are explored. Practical knowledge regarding the experiences of those from diverse backgrounds to best prepare students to interact with, and support, all children and families is highlighted. Students actively engage within the community to build bridges between families, schools, and the greater community.

A comprehensive view of various observation techniques for determining children's strengths and emerging skills. Exploration of issues regarding the use of formal assessments and testing with young children, retention and transitional placements, and the parent's role in testing. Permission. (Fall semester only.)