CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The Iowa Department of Education identifies a shortage of teachers with special education endorsements in school districts across Iowa. To address this need, the University of Northern Iowa is now offering new flexible, online pathways for practicing teachers to become licensed as instructional strategist special education teachers. Interested teachers can begin coursework as early as May. 

This post-baccalaureate coursework can lead to these Iowa endorsements:

• Grades K-8 (#260) and 5-12 (#261) instructional strategist I: mild/moderate
• Grades K-12 (#264) instructional strategist II: ID (intellectual disabilities)
• Grades K-12 (#263) instructional strategist II: BD/LD (behavior disabilities or learning disorders)

“Practicing teachers often earn the instructional strategist I endorsement as an undergraduate,” said Robin Dada, interim head, Department of Special Education, and head, Curriculum and Instruction, at the College of Education, noting this is one of the leading minors at UNI. “These post-graduation options allow in-service teachers to add that initial endorsement or broaden their skill set with these more specialized endorsements. In all cases, teaching professionals working with special education students can meet their individual professional needs and those of the school districts they serve.”

The courses are led by the College of Education faculty with support from Online and Distance Education in the College of Graduate, Research, and Online Education. For more information about admission requirements or to enroll, visit online.uni.edu/sp-ed-endorsements.

“All students deserve the best learning opportunities in an inclusive environment that facilitates their success in developing positive social interactions and learning experiences,” said Dada. “Having a qualified teacher has a significant impact on student success.”