McKendree University’s Paraprofessional+ Pathway Program Receives Official Certification from Illinois State Board of Education

McKendree’s innovative new program is the first-ever approved apprenticeship model for the State of Illinois through the ISBE and the Department of Labor

(LEBANON, Ill., April 11, 2024) – McKendree University’s new Paraprofessional+ Pathway program has recently gained certification from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), making it the very first institution of higher learning in the state to have an approved apprenticeship program for paraprofessionals who hope to become licensed teachers.

McKendree was also the first university in the state to receive the Gateway Apprenticeship Grant through the Illinois Department of Labor (DOL) last fall to support the Paraprofessional+ Pathway program. Through this registered apprenticeship program, students may continue working full-time as paraprofessionals while doing their online coursework and practicing skills in the field.

“This collaboration between the Madison County’s Gateway Apprenticeship Hub and McKendree University marks a historic milestone as we launch Illinois’ first-ever USDOL-approved teacher apprenticeship program,” said Becca Ryan, grant manager at Gateway Apprenticeship Hub. “Together, we’re forging new pathways to excellence in education, setting a precedent for innovation and opportunity statewide. Madison County Employment and Training Department has been impressed by McKendree’s pioneering spirit and commitment to providing equitable pathways into the field of education.”

Initially, the Paraprofessional+ Pathway program allowed paraprofessionals to become licensed teachers at the elementary level in only two years. Now, the university has also added a special education track as the program has seen impressive growth and higher demand. Both tracks can be taken completely online with semesters beginning in the summer, fall and spring. Admission requires employment as a paraprofessional, along with approval from administrators.

“At McKendree, we are honored to be the first apprenticeship teacher education program in the state recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Department of Labor. We are excited to bring more options to school districts to help fill the teacher pipeline with quality and successful teachers,” said Elizabeth Ketchum, academic advisor and grant administrative coordinator for the School of Education at McKendree.

The School of Education at McKendree University ensures that its students are fully prepared for the teaching career of their choice through a series of real-world experiences and rigorous coursework. Education students benefit from the longstanding relationships the university has with area school districts and are often paired with one of the many McKendree alumni who are now teachers at local K-12 schools. Furthermore, an impressive 98 to 100 percent of McKendree education students who remain in the state of Illinois after graduation land a job in their field of choice.

For more information, please contact Elizabeth Ketchum at [email protected] or by calling 1-800-BEARCAT.

 

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