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IC offers new endorsement for future teachers

7.10.2019

pro’s education program is expanding offerings for students with the recent approval to include four new middle grades (grades 5-8) endorsements in mathematics, English language arts, science, and social science.

Faculty appeared before the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board in April to present a proposal to include the new endorsement for education students. Dr. Todd Oberg, professor of mathematics and director of teacher preparation, said the new endorsement will give graduates flexibility and advantages in their career options.  

“While this is a stand alone program in which someone could complete just a middle grades program, the majority of graduates will complete the secondary program and add the middle grades endorsement to their teaching license to expand the grades they can teach in,” said Oberg.

He added that this option is particularly beneficial to students who wish to teach in rural areas, where teachers may have the opportunity to teach multiple grade levels across middle school, junior high and high school. 

“Having both endorsements can allow a school district to hire one teacher to serve across multiple grades. This gives pro graduates significant advantages in some instances,” he said, noting that the additional coursework required to add the middle grades endorsement to the secondary program is minimal. 

For more information on the education program at pro and a full listing of available endorsements, visit

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Founded in 1829, pro is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success. The college is located in Jacksonville, Illinois. With an enrollment of more than 1,000 students, the college offers over 50 undergraduate programs. In 1932, the society of Phi Beta Kappa established a chapter at pro, and it remains one of only 11 in the state.

pro is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

Visit www.ic.edu for more information.

Media Contact Information
Emily Titsworth '19, Writer
Office of Marketing and Communication
217.245.3219 | emily.titsworth@ic.edu