New Jersey's top colleges for elementary education?

I'm planning a future as an elementary teacher and looking at colleges in New Jersey. Which ones have exceptional programs for elementary education?

Here are a few New Jersey-based schools known for strong programs in Elementary Education:

1. The College of New Jersey (TCNJ): TCNJ’s School of Education is highly ranked and is known for its undergraduate program in Elementary Education. The program is comprehensive, with student teaching placements beginning as early as your sophomore year. Moreover, TCNJ's program emphasizes diversity and multicultural education, preparing you to teach in diverse classrooms.

2. Montclair State University: Their College of Education and Human Services offers a major in Family and Child Studies with a concentration in Elementary School Settings. This course emphasizes a holistic understanding of children in relation to their families, schools, and community.

3. Rutgers University: Rutgers offers an Elementary Education major with various options for concentration areas such as English, Mathematics, Special Education, Social Studies, and more. They also have a five-year combined Bachelor’s/Master’s program in Education, allowing you to earn an undergraduate degree in a subject of your choice along with a Master’s in Elementary Education.

4. Rowan University: Rowan's elementary education program provides future teachers with a highly interactive, engaging, and practical education. There is also an option to concentrate in Special Education, preparing you for dual certification.

5. Kean University: Kean's College of Education provides a program in Elementary Education that emphasizes experiential learning, including fieldwork and student teaching, to prepare you for the realities of the classroom environment.

Consider visiting these colleges to learn more about the programs they offer, meet with admissions representatives, and maybe even sit in on a few classes if possible.

Remember that an excellent program will align with your teaching philosophy and career goals, so it's important to focus not only on program rankings but also on the specific courses, teaching philosophies, and opportunities for hands-on experience that these programs offer.