LEWISTON – The University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College will host an open house and information session from 6 to 7:30 p.m.Monday, May 3, for those interested in learning more about the kindergarten through grade eight teacher education program.

Collaborative Learning and School Success is an undergraduate program that prepares students for careers in the classroom. It enables students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to complete an academic major of their choice in the arts and sciences and to become a certified teacher in grades kindergarten through eight.

The CLASS Professional Development School program provides all the education courses and experiences required to become a qualified, state-certified candidate for elementary and middle school teaching positions in Maine. The courses, field experiences and seminars occur on-site in local public schools, currently Sherwood Heights Elementary School and Auburn Middle School.

Roger Philippon, assistant dean for student and community affairs, said USM’s L-A College receives many inquiries from students interested in becoming teachers.

The informal gathering will include a brief presentation about the program by Dr. Bumper White, associate professor of education and coordinator of the program, and Dr. Paul Caron, assistant professor of education. Current program students will attend, as will Auburn partner school representatives. Information about admissions and financial aid will be available.

The event, free and open to the public, will be held in Room 170 at Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster St. Light refreshments will be served. Those who wish to attend are asked to call Jim at 753-6618. Space is limited, so advance registration is encouraged.

The program is designed specifically for undergraduate students. Anyone interested in teaching who already holds a bachelor’s degree may want to consider the ETEP program, a post-baccalaureate teacher education program offered through USM’s College of Education and Human Development. Those interested are encouraged to call 780-5306 for more information.