Middle Level Emphasis Program (MLE)

What is middle level?

The middle level (grades 5-8) is a time of exploration, discovery and challenge for young adolescents. Student's between the ages of ten and fourteen are experiencing rapid changes in their physical, intellectual and social development and require schools and teachers well equipped to support them. Middle schools generally include grades six through eight (sometimes grades five or nine) and offer a variety of schedules and support systems to address students needs. Team teaching, intellectually demanding curriculum, block scheduling, differentiated instruction, advisory groups and exploratory electives are just a few examples. Some elementary schools (K-6) support middle level learners in self contained classrooms or with students that include team or interdisciplinary teaching for grades 5-6.

Why choose a middle level emphasis?

Credential programs in California provide preparation for multiple subjects (grades K-8, with a focus on elementary grades) and single subjects (grades 7-12, with a focus on high school students). The teacher who wants to teach middle level is often forced to choose one or the other without particular emphasis on the strategies, skills and knowledge necessary to meet the unique teaching and learning needs of the young adolescent. The middle level emphasis program at SJSU is specifically designed to overcome this problem (see program description below). Whether you plan to teach middle level students in a middle school or upper elementary setting, a middle level emphasis will assist you to be successful with young adolescent learners.

Is middle level right for you?

Take our quick quiz for the answer:

1. Do you enjoy working with 10-14 year-olds?

2. Are you passionate about teaching one or more of the following subject areas: reading, writing, history-social science, science, mathematics?

3. Are you excited about teaching kids who are ready for more sophisticated intellectual tasks?

4. Do you want to teach students who are at turning points in their academic and personal lives?

5. Are you excited about helping kids navigate the challenges of social, emotional, and physical change?

6. Do you have a sense of humor?

If you answered "Yes" to all 6 questions, you are ready for middle level teaching.

Program Course Schedule
 

The following courses/requirements may completed any time before or during the program, however ALL must be completed prior to applying for the Preliminary Multiple Subject Credential.

1. EDTE 190 - Health Education,
2. EDSE 192 - Mainstreaming the Exceptional Child, AND
3. CPR Certification (Infant, Child & Adult)

Student Teaching Placements

Students are placed in the following districts:

Alum Rock
Campbell Union
Cupertino
Franklin McKinley
Gilroy
Mountain View-Whisman
San Mateo-Foster City

Interested in visting a local middle school to see what it's like?

Feel free to contact the principal at one of the following middle schools. Let them know that you are a credential candidate at SJSU and they can help you arrange a site visit.

Application Process

1. ATTEND A GROUP ADVISEMENT SESSION:
   These orientation sessions, held twice a month, are required of all students who wish to enroll Multiple Subject Credential Program. For information regarding upcoming sessions, please call 408-924-3771 or click here for a schedule. If you live outside the Bay Area, please study the Advisement Guide for program requirements, and admission information; then contact the Director of Admissions at jgrodeon@aol.com.

2. APPLY TO THE MULIPLE SUBJECTS TEACHING CREDENTIAL PROGRAM: Follow the general application process for admission to the credential program through the Elementary Education Department. On the application form, indicate your interest in the Middle Level Emphasis Program option. Your initial meeting with the advisor in the Department of Elementary Education will help you determine if the program is right for you.

Contact Information

Andrea Whittaker, Ph.D.
akwhitt@comcast.net
408-924-3751
Sweeney Hall 437