This course provides an overview of the American education system for students interested in teaching in grades K-12. Explores educational philosophies, history of education in the United States, and major economic, political, and social policies that have affected the school system. In addition, the course covers the structure of the K-12 school system, the teaching profession, the social and cultural contexts of schooling, and an overview of curriculum design. The course requires a minimum of 48 hours of fieldwork in a public school elementary classroom, under the guidance of an approved credentialed K-5 classroom teacher.