Dr. Drew Gerdes
Assistant Professor of Education, Early Childhood Education Program Director, Director of Student Teaching
402-643-7128 drew.gerdes@cune.eduThom Leadership Education Center 211A
Dr. Drew Gerdes brings a variety of national and international experiences to Concordia University, Nebraska. Dr. Gerdes has served as an Early Childhood Teacher and Administrator at schools in the United States and Asia for nearly 3 decades. Noted as a professional who loves to share and develop other educators, Dr. Gerdes has been a sought-after speaker on a variety of topics in Early Childhood Education and Lutheran School Ministry.
Working with university students is something Dr. Gerdes tremendously values; he knows real-life experience can hold valuable learning opportunities that last a lifetime. Previously living overseas has provided him with an understanding of diversity, patience and compassion and how to incorporate those best in a classroom and community environment. Some of the best learning practices occur when one is stretched in experience and thinking.
As a product of Lutheran education, Dr. Gerdes seeks to inspire students to live out their vocations in meaningful ways that serve both God and the community. Through his engagement in LCMS School Ministry, Lutheran Education Association, Asia Lutheran Education Association and by writing numerous devotional and curriculum materials for educators, Dr. Gerdes seeks to develop a collaborative space for deeper learning, life-long learning and learning that ultimately lets people know about Jesus!
Dr. Drew Gerdes's Academic Programs
Undergraduate
Early Childhood Birth-3rd Grade Inclusive Education
The early childhood education program at Concordia University, Nebraska equips teacher candidates with a current and well-researched curriculum to help you teach children at a critical stage in their growth and development by creating an education program specific to their needs.
Graduate
Early Childhood Education
With Concordia University, Nebraska’s early childhood education online program, you will gain the skills you need to make a positive impact in the lives of young children. This program will prepare you for the role of an accomplished teacher and mentor as you complete advanced study in early childhood development and education.
Early Childhood Education Birth–3rd Inclusive
Discover how you can make a difference in the lives of young students. Concordia University, Nebraska's online master's in early childhood education program prepares you to put children first as you teach children from birth through third grade.
Early Childhood Special Education
Our early childhood special education master's program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement and assess learning experiences in an early childhood special education (birth through kindergarten) classroom.