Portfolio design is integrated as an early project in the teacher education curriculum at the University of Idaho. The project provides students with a first experience in gathering and organizing data for the purpose of tracking professional growth and development. It also provides faculty with an authentic assessment tool. The portfolio causes education majors to produce projects that show a knowledge of subject matter as well as knowledge of the technology of teaching. As part of an Introduction to Teaching course, the portfolio becomes the beginning of self-assessment, development of a philosophy of education, and student reflection on the profession. The portfolio assignment consists of a teaching resume, lesson plans, self-enhancement plan, educational philosophy, reflection on professional growth, and other items. The literature on the use of portfolios has revealed many purposes for portfolios as assessment tools. Student reflections on the portfolio activity and suggestions for improvement are offered. (Contains 13 references.) (JDD)