University News
Teachers Have Lifelong Learning Opportunities at Western
August 17, 2006
MOLINE/MACOMB, IL – WANTED: Illinois and Iowa teachers seeking to advance their careers and wanting to become national board certified educators.
Western Illinois University-Quad CitiesÂ’ department of curriculum and instruction (C & I) will offer a new strand to its elementary education program beginning Fall 2006 which is aligned with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. According to Cindy Dooley, C & I department chair, there are currently several areas of specialization offered within the masterÂ’s program, and now students selecting the multidisciplinary approach may prepare for the national certification.
“This certification is a great honor and marks a teacher an outstanding professional,” Dooley explained. “It’s a natural step for many of our graduate students, as well as experienced teachers who have been in the classroom for at least three years. Now, they can earn their master’s degree and prepare for the national board.
“Teachers who have already completed a master’s degree are encouraged to take courses to continue their professional development,” Dooley said. “We offer a variety of classes that address topics and issues relevant to today’s classroom.”
Bill Poock, a fourth grade teacher at Kewanee (IL) Wethersfield, said the C & I program was the best form of professional development he has ever signed up for.
“Its effects are far-reaching. I teach with the standards embedded in my practice and philosophy,” he said.
Erin Stegall, a music teacher at Edison School in Macomb (IL), agreed with PoockÂ’s assessment of the program.
“If every teacher participated in this program, no child would be left behind,” Stegall said. “It makes me examine everything I do in the classroom to ensure that my teaching truly has an impact on student achievement.”
The national board certification is available to currently enrolled students and new students, and will be centered primarily at the WIU-QC campus, Dooley said.
For more information, contact Dooley at 309/298-1961 or at CJ-Dooley@wiu.edu, or Angie Ferree at 309/298-1125 or AM-Ferree@wiu.edu.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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