Northern Illinois University
College of Education

Educate Local provides teacher licensure candidates the opportunity to gain experience and develop their perspective of education through volunteering, observing and participating in various campus, community and educational settings. 

As Educate Local participants, teacher candidates begin to build their professional portfolio during their freshman year and continue through graduation. These opportunities provide candidates with the added value of experience and a depth of understanding that will support and enrich their teacher preparation.

The College of Education has established a variety of professional development opportunities and experiences, including at Altus Academy in Chicago, Brooks Elementary School and Clinton Rosette Middle School in DeKalb, the Chana (IL) Education Center, Golfview Elementary School in Carpentersville, Lincoln Elementary School in Bellwood, the NIU Child Development and Family Center and NIU’s Lorado Taft Field Campus.

Educate Local events occur at various times throughout the year, with time commitments ranging from a few hours to a full day.

Educate Local programs are for students in:

• Early Education
• Elementary Education
• Middle Grades Teaching and Learning
• Physical Education
• Special Education

For more information, contact Jennifer Johnson at 815-753-4265 or jljohnson@niu.edu.