This program provides students with both academic coursework and field experience necessary to become a teacher of children ages birth to 8 years. The program allows the student to experience working with young children and mentor teachers. The program includes teaching methods in reading, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, children's literature, expressive arts, and observation and assessment techniques. Emphasis is placed on educational foundations, child development, nutrition, families, communities, schools and other agencies. Students entering the Early Childhood Education Program must show evidence of a current TB test and obtain a cleared Portable Background check through Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families.