Learning Outcomes

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Conceptual Framework

A circular diagram with "Teacher Candidate" at the center, surrounded by four sections: Community, Intellectual Curiosity, Teacher Leader, and Equity & Advocacy. The outer ring reads "Benedictine Values, K-12 Students’ Assets, Needs, Schools & Communities.

At the heart of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University Education Department lies a commitment to teacher candidates and excellence in teacher preparation. Guided by values deeply rooted in both tradition and innovation, we emphasize four interwoven principles: community, intellectual curiosity, equity and advocacy, and teacher leadership. These principles are derived from the Standards of Effective Practice, CSB + SJU learning goals, the unique assets and needs of K-12 students, and the Benedictine values. Together, they form the backbone of a comprehensive approach to teacher preparation that cultivates educators who are deeply invested in building inclusive communities, driven by a passion for lifelong learning, dedicated to advocating for equitable educational opportunities, and equipped to become influential teacher leaders. This holistic framework contributes to the development of teachers who are compassionate, curious, community-oriented, and poised to lead for positive change in the field of education. Conceptual framework full document.

Licensing Standards

Our programs are designed to prepare teacher candidates to meet the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice and the subject-specific content standards.

Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction

Future teachers at CSB+SJU learn evidence-based literacy instructional practices consistent with the science of reading. Literacy methods coursework focuses on the National Reading Panel 5 pillars of reading (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension), as well as oral language, writing, and motivation. They are taught the importance of how to implement explicit, systematic, and sequential phonics instruction.  Future teachers are prepared to work with students with dyslexia and other disabilities that affect reading. The coursework covers symptoms of dyslexia, resources for students with dyslexia, and appropriate instructional strategies and interventions for students with dyslexia.

Leah VanOverbeke
Education Department Specialist
CSB HAB 125D
320-363-5709