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Following a successful inaugural year, where recipients opted to enroll in Illinois College's online education licensure program, the institution remains committed to addressing Illinois’ critical teacher shortage.

The innovative online education licensure program offers college graduates a streamlined pathway to obtain their teaching license. With a duration of approximately 12 months for secondary education and just over a year for elementary education, the program is tailored to equip aspiring educators with the necessary tools and expertise to thrive in today's educational landscape. It is especially well-suited for individuals already working in school districts as paraprofessionals or long-term substitute teachers. 

Jaime Klein, Chair of the education department at Illinois College, underscored the urgency of combating the teacher shortage crisis. "Amidst the myriad challenges facing the education field, the shortage of qualified teachers stands out as particularly critical," said Klein. "The Illinois College Teacher Preparation Program is steadfast in its commitment to addressing this challenge head-on through our innovative post-baccalaureate licensure program."

Eligible candidates with majors in biology, English, history, math, or related fields can enroll in the secondary licensure program. Similarly, students from diverse academic backgrounds can enter the elementary licensure program, demonstrating Illinois College's commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the teaching profession.

In collaboration with the Golden Apple Accelerators Program, Illinois College offers vital scholarships to participants in its licensure program, covering tuition expenses and providing stipends to alleviate additional financial burdens. This partnership aims to remove barriers to entry and expedite program completion, enabling aspiring educators to enter classrooms expeditiously.

"We are thrilled to be a higher education partner with the Golden Apple Accelerators Program, a leader in working to end the teacher shortage in Illinois since 2020," noted Klein. "Together, we are poised to support and empower aspiring teachers, thereby transforming the lives of the next generation."

Aspiring educators at Illinois College benefit from a range of resources, including the Teacher Preparation Program and state-of-the-art technology housed within the Joy French Becker '67 Center for Teacher Education.

For more information about Illinois College's post-baccalaureate education licensure program and other online offerings, visit IC Online. Prospective applicants can learn more about scholarships and eligibility criteria by visiting the Golden Apple Accelerators Program website.