A unique partnership between the Washington State University Tri-Cities College of Education and two elementary schools in Pasco will give student teachers exposure to more classrooms and teaching styles during their practicum. Maya Angelou Elementary and Rosalind Franklin STEM Elementary were each designated as a “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Teaching Laboratory School” during separate ceremonies on Monday, Nov. 4.

Teaching Laboratory Schools provide a rich and meaningful early practicum experience for teacher candidates. Unlike traditional practicums that place student teachers in one classroom, WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates placed in Laboratory Schools observe multiple classrooms focused on specific topics about teaching and learning. After observing, candidates then volunteer in specific classrooms to support and apply teaching techniques.

Teachers from Maya Angelou Elementary and leadership from WSU Tri-Cities, and the Pasco School District stand with the sign identifying Maya Angelou Elementary as a WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Laboratory School.

“The official designation as a WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Laboratory School is a profound honor and a transformative opportunity for our students and community,” said Diana Cissne, Principal of Maya Angelou Elementary School in Pasco. “This partnership not only enhances our educational practices through innovative teaching strategies and resources, but also enriches the learning experiences of our students, preparing them for a bright future. Together, we are fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, empowering both our future educators and our young learners to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”

This partnership offers student teachers a unique chance to engage in dual-language classroom environments within the Pasco School District, which proudly hosts the largest dual-language program in Washington State. With this immersive experience, teacher candidates gain valuable skills in supporting bilingual education and multilanguage learning—a critical component of Pasco’s educational approach. This focus on dual-language instruction, combined with STEM education, provides future educators with a well-rounded practicum experience that reflects Pasco’s commitment to preparing students for a diverse and interconnected world.

Rosalind Franklin STEM Elementary Principal, Jennifer Melendrez says this partnership will lead to endless possibilities for teachers and students. “We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the innovative partnership between Rosalind Franklin STEM Elementary and WSU Tri-Cities,” she said.  “This collaboration is truly transformative, blending higher education with elementary education to elevate teacher preparation. Through this hands-on experience in our dynamic STEM environment, future educators are developing creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. Together, we are not only enriching the education of today, but also inspiring the next generation of students to explore the exciting possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.”

Teachers from Rosalind Franklin STEM Elementary and leadership from WSU Tri-Cities, and the Pasco School District stand with the sign identifying Rosalind Franklin STEM as a WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Laboratory School.

John Mancinelli, the Field Services Director at WSU Tri-Cities, stated that creating impactful future educators benefits the community for decades. “Approximately eighty-five percent of WSU Tri-Cities students stay in our region,” he said.  “These partnerships allow all our candidates to gain valuable insights into teaching and learning from exemplary mentor teachers, enhancing the significance of their education and the skills they develop to become educators. We are grateful for this partnership.”

Richland and Kennewick School Districts have also volunteered to initiate the Laboratory School partnership. Tapteal Elementary in West Richland was designated as a “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Teaching Laboratory School” in October. The Kennewick School District is working to identify their partner schools.

WSU Tri-Cities Field Services places teacher candidates in regional schools for three types of practica: Early, Pre-Internship, and Student Teaching. All teacher candidates combined spend about 45,000 hours each academic year in 33 different school districts located in the Columbia Basin including Walla Walla, Goldendale, Yakima, Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and the Tri-Cities.

The WSU Tri-Cities College of Education offers multiple routes for individuals interested in earning a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in education, as well as certification programs for principals, program administrators and superintendents.