The Community, Culture, & Language (CCL) degree—together with teacher certification coursework—prepares you to become an elementary teacher who creates welcoming, inclusive classrooms where students’ identities, cultures, and languages are valued as assets for learning. Through your CCL coursework, you’ll develop a solid foundation in culturally responsive teaching and develop the knowledge needed to support multilingual learners.
The teacher certification coursework strengthens your teaching practice, giving you the instructional skills needed to effectively support learners in today’s elementary classrooms. By completing both the CCL degree and certification requirements, you will qualify for Washington State’s K–8 Teacher Certification and earn the English Language Learner (ELL) endorsement, demonstrating your ability to teach and advocate for multilingual students.
The program emphasizes experiential learning. You’ll spend meaningful time in local K–12 classrooms working alongside experienced teachers and engaging with community organizations that support children and families. These field-based experiences help you apply course concepts, practice effective instructional strategies, and build confidence working directly with students. Faculty intentionally connect fieldwork with coursework, guiding your growth as a well-prepared educator ready to serve diverse communities.
Concentration Highlights
- For students who wish to work in K-8 public or private school settings
- Students receive Washington State Elementary certification with English Language Learner and Reading endorsements
- Site-based clinical experience
- 120 hour TESOL Certificate (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
- Cultural and linguistic immersion experiences
- Hands-on advocacy projects
- Interdisciplinary learning
Questions?
Dr. Kathleen Nitta
509-313-3473
nitta@gonzaga.edu