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School of Education - George Mason University

Division of Elementary, Literacy, and Secondary Education

Kristien Zenkov Division Director

Kristien Zenkov
Division Director

Welcome to the Division of Elementary, Literacy, and Secondary Education (ELS)! ELS comprises the Elementary Education, Health and Physical Education, Reading/Literacy Education, and Secondary Education programs. We offer a wide range of degree and licensure opportunities for beginning and experienced educators in grades PK-12. Choices include initial preparation as a teacher in elementary education (PK-6), secondary education (middle and high school subjects), physical education, foreign language education, or English as a Second Language (ESL). We also support advanced preparation for teacher leaders through our Reading Specialist program as well as advanced coursework across a range of specializations for students in the CEHD PhD in Education program.

In addition to offering degrees and licensure, ELS programs collaborate with school divisions and agencies to provide professional development to meet local needs. Our outreach and research efforts span the globe and include the individual and collaborative projects of our diverse faculty and students.

ELS faculty and staff are committed to working with teachers, local school divisions, and the community as well as national and international colleagues to build excellent programs to serve diverse children and youth. Our division exemplifies the core values of the college through our research, leadership, and course offerings that include a focus on social justice, ethical leadership, innovation, research-based practices, and collaboration.

Academic Program Coordinators