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Hi, UM Griz parents and families! Today, we’re highlighting Dan Lee, Dean of the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education. The college trains school and mental health counselors, teachers, librarians, principals, superintendents, and other educational professionals.  

Q: What makes the UM College of Education unique? 

A: The UM College of Education is the only institution in Montana that has an active lab school for teacher education. The school has three classrooms, and children attend four days a week. It currently enrolls students from preschool through kindergarten but will soon expand to serve students in preschool through second grade. Having this lab school on campus allows teacher candidates at UM to gain hands-on experience working with children. Classrooms are equipped with one-way glass so professors and teacher candidates can unobtrusively observe young children as they play and learn. 

Q: What’s the importance of being an educator?  

A: Dan emphasizes the need for teachers who can help students separate fact from fiction and be engaged members of an educated populace. He also highlights a crucial need for teachers who can support young people emotionally at a time when increasing numbers of students are struggling with their mental health. Educators have the unparalleled opportunity to transform and change lives. The UM College of Education prepares teachers who are committed to positively impacting young people against all odds.  

Q: What’s the best part of your job? 

A: Dan’s favorite part of his role as dean is sending students off into their lifelong careers on graduation day. He says it is great to see the culmination of a student’s work and effort when they cross the stage and enter a profession he loves so much. He is confident that students will be able to make a difference in their teaching careers. Dan also loves attending the College of Education’s scholarship event because he can see how appreciative teacher candidates are for the financial help they receive.