An elementary education endorsement illinois authorizes teachers to teach in elementary schools, typically grades K-6. To obtain this endorsement, aspiring educators must meet specific requirements set forth by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). This article provides a comprehensive guide to the elementary education endorsement in Illinois, covering the necessary coursework, student teaching, examinations, and reciprocity agreements.
Elementary Education Endorsement in Illinois
To become an elementary school teacher in Illinois, you need to have an elementary education endorsement. This endorsement shows that you have the knowledge and skills to teach students in grades K-6.
There are a few different ways to get an elementary education endorsement in Illinois. One way is to complete an approved teacher preparation program. These programs are offered at colleges and universities across the state. Another way to get an endorsement is to have out-of-state teaching experience. If you have taught elementary school in another state, you may be able to get an Illinois endorsement without completing a teacher preparation program.
Once you have completed a teacher preparation program or have out-of-state teaching experience, you will need to pass the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) exams. These exams are used to assess your knowledge of elementary education content and your teaching skills.
| Exam | Code |
|---|---|
| Elementary Education Content | 111 |
| Elementary Education Pedagogy | 211 |
Once you have passed the ILTS exams, you will be eligible to apply for an elementary education endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The ISBE will review your application and issue you an endorsement if you meet all of the requirements.
Requirements for an Elementary Education Endorsement in Illinois
To become an elementary school teacher in Illinois, you need to have an elementary education endorsement. This endorsement shows that you have the knowledge and skills to teach students in grades K-6.
There are a few different requirements that you need to meet in order to get an elementary education endorsement in Illinois. These requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree in elementary education or a related field
- Completion of a teacher preparation program that is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
- Passing the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) exams
Once you have met all of these requirements, you can apply for an elementary education endorsement from the ISBE. The ISBE will review your application and issue you an endorsement if you meet all of the requirements.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | A bachelor’s degree in elementary education or a related field is required. |
| Teacher preparation program | Completion of a teacher preparation program that is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is required. |
| ILTS exams | Passing the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) exams is required. |
For more information about the requirements for an elementary education endorsement in Illinois, please visit the ISBE website.
Reciprocity Agreements for Elementary Education Endorsements in Illinois
What is Reciprocity?
Reciprocity is an agreement between two states that allows teachers to teach in either state without having to get a new teaching license. This means that if you have an elementary education endorsement in one state, you may be able to get an endorsement in Illinois without having to complete any additional coursework or exams.
Reciprocity Agreements with Illinois
Illinois has reciprocity agreements with the following states:
- Arkansas
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
If you have an elementary education endorsement in one of these states, you may be eligible for an Illinois endorsement without having to complete any additional coursework or exams. However, you will need to meet all of the other requirements for an Illinois endorsement, including passing the ILTS exams.
How to Apply for Reciprocity
To apply for reciprocity, you will need to submit an application to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The application fee is $50. You can find the application on the ISBE website. Once you have submitted your application, the ISBE will review your credentials to determine if you are eligible for reciprocity.
If you are approved for reciprocity, you will be issued an Illinois elementary education endorsement. This endorsement will allow you to teach in Illinois for five years. After five years, you will need to renew your endorsement by completing 120 hours of professional development.
Additional Information
For more information about reciprocity agreements for elementary education endorsements in Illinois, please visit the ISBE website or contact the ISBE at 217-782-4321.
| State | Reciprocity Agreement? |
|---|---|
| Arkansas | Yes |
| Iowa | Yes |
| Kentucky | Yes |
| Missouri | Yes |
| Oklahoma | Yes |
| Tennessee | Yes |
| Wisconsin | Yes |
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Additional Information about Elementary Education Endorsements in Illinois
Continuing Education Requirements
Once you have obtained your elementary education endorsement in Illinois, you will need to complete 120 hours of professional development every five years to renew your endorsement. This professional development can include attending workshops, taking courses, or participating in other activities that will help you improve your teaching skills and knowledge.
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) provides a list of approved professional development providers on its website. You can also find professional development opportunities through your local school district or through professional organizations such as the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) or the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
- Teaching Time Management to Elementary Students
- Building Effective Communication Skills in Young Learners
| Provider | Contact | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois State Board of Education | 217-782-4321 | https://www.isbe.net/ |
| National Council of Teachers of Mathematics | 703-620-9840 | https://www.nctm.org/ |
| National Science Teachers Association | 703-312-9200 | https://www.nsta.org/ |
Endorsement Renewal
To renew your elementary education endorsement, you will need to submit an application to the ISBE. The application fee is $50. You can find the application on the ISBE website.
Once you have submitted your application, the ISBE will review your credentials to determine if you have met the requirements for renewal. If you have met all of the requirements, you will be issued a new elementary education endorsement that will be valid for five years.
Additional Resources
For more information about elementary education endorsements in Illinois, please visit the ISBE website or contact the ISBE at 217-782-4321.
Final Thought
Obtaining an elementary education endorsement in Illinois is a crucial step for aspiring educators who wish to teach in elementary schools. By meeting the requirements outlined above, candidates can demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and commitment to providing high-quality education to young learners. For further information and updates, it is recommended to refer to the official website of the Illinois State Board of Education.
