The philosophy of the Child and Family Education department affirms its position as a component of an institution of higher education committed to maintaining learning environments that facilitate and support learning opportunities which promote the learner’s professional and personal growth. We are committed to providing: 1. Quality education through active, authentic learning experiences which will result in well prepared, knowledgeable, reflective early childhood professionals who are committed to the concept of lifelong learning. 2. Quality education through active, authentic learning experiences which will result in well prepared, knowledgeable, efficient, and competent paraprofessional service providers for individuals with developmental disabilities. 3. Quality education for a program of interpreter training which will result in well prepared, knowledgeable, efficient, and competent entry-level interpreters for the deaf.