Education Stories & News

Joni Armstrong

UNI's Purple Pathway for School Administrators guides veteran teachers to educational leadership

Joni Armstrong is among the first graduates of the Purple Pathway for School Administrators, a partnership between UNI and Des Moines Public Schools.
Teacher education student working with young student in classroom

Iowa Board of Regents approves new bachelor’s degree in Special and Inclusive Education

The Iowa Board of Regents has approved a new Bachelor of Arts in special and inclusive education at the University of Northern Iowa, effective this fall, marking a significant step forward in preparing educators to meet Iowa’s ongoing demand for highly skilled special education teachers.
Katie Nedwick reading a book to a young child in front of a green screen

Carver Trust grant expands educational technology in UNI’s TEACH Studio

A $130,000 grant will support the continued development of the UNI TEACH Studio, an innovative learning environment advancing how future educators are prepared to serve Iowa’s PreK–12 schools.
Shinho Kim

Carlton-Mellichamp Lecture explores connection between robotics-based STEM education and learning

Guest lecturer Shinho Kim, PhD, Framingham State University, presents “Why Robotics-Based STEM Education Matters” on Feb. 26 from 4:30 to 6 p.m., part of this year’s Carlton-Mellichamp Lecture in Education.
Claire Uselding directing band

Band directors swing back to UNI for Tallcorn Jazz Festival

For some UNI-educated band directors, attending the Tallcorn Jazz Festival with their students is a full-circle moment, as many of them helped organize and execute the event back in their college days.
Mara Burkholder working with students

From first grade dreams to future classrooms: Mara Burkholder’s path to teaching at UNI

For Mara Burkholder, the desire to become a teacher began early — much earlier than most college students can remember.
Student looking for a book in the TEACH Studio

UNI’s newly expanded TEACH Studio will inspire future educators

UNI's TEACH Studio is filled with resources for teacher education students at the University of Northern Iowa.
UNI online master's in education programs make top 20% of programs

U.S. News & World Report ranks UNI among 2026 Best Online Programs

The University of Northern Iowa is among the 2026 Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
PE teacher working with student

10 reasons to become a teacher

There are so many benefits of being a teacher! Read from real current and future teachers about why they chose to enter the profession.
esports gamers at consoles

UNI will launch new esports minor, certificates in fall 2026

New esports administration minor and related certificates let students turn a passion for gaming into skills supporting real-world careers in the esports industry and other settings including recreation and education.