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Department of Curriculum and Instruction
LeoTeach: Where Teachers Come to Learn
Whether you are just starting out, or looking to advance your career in education, you will develop the tools you need to feel confident in the classroom.
The Department of Curriculum and Instruction offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate teacher certification programs. Our undergraduate programs encompass elementary grades EC-6, middle school grades 4-8, and special education. Secondary education (grades 7-12) is a collaboration between our department and the department of your chosen content area. Our online or hybrid MED/MS programs in curriculum and instruction, with areas of emphases in early childhood education, reading, or secondary education, help to prepare you to teach in your content area. We also offer a doctorate in supervision, curriculum and instruction with a multitude of concentrations to help focus your passion.
Explore Our Programs
Early Childhood Education (BS) EC-3 Emphasis
Earn your bachelor’s and guide the next generation as an early childhood educator in public and private school settings.
Education (BA/BS) Bilingual Grade EC-6
Develop an in-depth understanding of multicultural learning environments with our interdisciplinary studies bachelor's degree program. If you seek to become a bilingual teacher, who provides instruction in both Spanish and English, this program requires Spanish literacy. If you seek to become a bilingual teacher, who provides instruction in English, you do not need foreign language literacy.
Education (BA/BS) Elementary Emphasis (Grade EC-6)
In our program, you'll explore core principles of elementary education, including instructional methods, child development and classroom management. Through coursework and field experiences, you'll have the opportunity to learn how to support young learners and create engaging learning environments for different classroom settings.
Education (BA/BS) Elementary Special Education Emphasis (Grade EC-6)
In our program, you'll explore the foundations of elementary and special education, focusing on instructional strategies, child development and classroom management. You'll have the opportunity to study how to support all learners and gain experience through field-based coursework designed to connect theory with practice.
Education (BA/BS) Middle School Emphasis (Grade 4-8)
Our bachelor's degree with middle school certification offers a number of specialties, allowing you to concentrate on specific interests. Learn to design engaging lessons, develop curriculum for all students and foster a welcoming learning environment.
Education (BA/BS) Special Education
A graduate with special education certification should possess the following competencies: knowledge of disabling conditions; knowledge of professional roles, strategies for promoting learning and development; and techniques to promote achievement in English language arts, reading and math.
Middle and High School Teacher, Grades 7-12 and All-Level
Curriculum and Instruction (MED/MS)
This degree involves 18 hours of study in the major and 18 hours of electives which allows students to take additional courses in the major, focus on an area of interest, or qualify to teach high school dual credit classes or at the community college level.
Curriculum and Instruction (MS) with Teacher Certification
This degree involves 18 hours of study in the major and 18 hours of alternative teacher certification.
Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.D.)
This degree prepares graduate students for careers in K-12 public and private schools, regional educational training facilities, college and university settings, and research and development centers. Â A graduate with the Doctor of Education degree should possess competencies in research methods, statistics, curriculum, instructional design, learning, instructional strategies and effective teaching.
Announcement
Upper level course work will require admission to the Educator Preparation Program. Visit the Admission section on the Educator Preparation Program webpage to learn more!

Welcome from the Department head
I am pleased to serve as the Department Head for Curriculum and Instruction. In Curriculum & Instruction we strive to empower new teachers, inspire current teachers, and promote teacher leadership through our variety of wonderful programs. From field-based preservice teacher preparation to obtaining your EdD in education, we can help you achieve your dreams for your chosen path in education.
Our faculty is comprised of outstanding educators who have earned their credentials from universities all throughout the US and have an abundance of practical experience teaching in K-12 classrooms. We invite you to explore our exceptional education and research opportunities.
Faculty Spotlight


Josh Thompson, Ph.D.

Kamshia Childs, Ed.D.
We’re Here For You
Our faculty and staff are honored and excited to invest in your success as a future educator. We’re here for you each step of the way and encourage you to let us know how we can help you grow as a peer in education. Our advisors are available to help with any questions you have on your academic journey.

Community
We strive to create a community where you feel empowered to learn and grow. Explore personal development opportunities outside of the classroom.
Student Organizations
Our faculty are actively involved in several organizations you can participate in as a curriculum and instruction student.
Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG) strives to promote professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education. This includes informing future educators of current economic, social, political and educational issues so that they may participate effectively in a world society.
The Beta Lambda Commerce Collegiate Chapter is part of Beta Lambda, the local chapter of DKG. Our collegiate chapter is made up of college students who are in their junior or senior year and are working toward an education degree. The chapter participates in the activities of Beta Lambda and holds special collegiate events. Members are eligible for scholarships at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Membership enables students to network and receive mentoring from local educators who are currently working in local schools or who are retired.
Contact [email protected] for more information.
As a member of the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE), you will learn the importance of service, leadership, and strong character, which will assist you in becoming an effective future educator.
Please contact [email protected] for more information about TAFE.
SCHOLARSHIPS
As an education student, you have access to a wide range of scholarships specific to your degree.
News Spotlights
Meet our Department
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Becky Adams, M.Ed. Instructor
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Michele Anderson, M.A. Clinical Instructor
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Ana Castillo, M.Ed. Clinical Instructor
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Kamshia Childs, Ed.D. Assistant Professor
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Rhonda Clark, M.Ed. Clinical Instructor
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Sherri Colby, Ph.D. Professor
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Amy Corp, Ed.D. Associate Professor
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Kathryn Dixon, Ph.D. Associate Professor and Assistant Dean of College of Education and Human Services
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Kay Hong-Nam, Ph.D. Professor
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Elizabeth Joslin Clinical Instructor
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Janet Kimbriel, Ed.D Clinical Instructor
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Melanie Loewenstein, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
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Shannon Manley, Ed.D. Clinical Instructor
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Karyn Miller, Ph.D. Associate Professor
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Julie Mills, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
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Lindsay Morgan, Ed.D. Clinical Instructor
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Bonnie Pearce, Ed.D. Assistant Professional Track
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Kristan Nicole Pearce, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
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Julia Persky, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
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Carol Revelle, Ph.D. Associate Professor
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Becky Sinclair, Ph.D. Professor
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Laura Slay, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
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Terelan Snowden Clinical Instructor
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Clay Stanfield, M.A.T., M.S. Program Specialist
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Josh Thompson, Ph.D. Professor
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Karen Walker, Ed.D. Assistant Professor
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Susan Williams, Ed.D. Assistant Professional Track
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Amber Woodard Clinical Instructor
Contact Us
- Department of Curriculum and Instruction
- 903.886.5537
- [email protected]
- Sowers Education South, 201
- 2100 Bois D'Arc Street
- Commerce, TX 75428
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011