UNI Enhances Professional Readiness for Educators

Iowa school districts, like other employers, are looking for employees that have the knowledge and professional skills needed to be successful. To build on the longstanding strength of UNI’s educator preparation program, UNI launched a unique training program for future teachers and school administrators called Professional Readiness for Educators.

“We launched this program based on extensive feedback from principals and school administrators from across Iowa,” said Victoria Robinson, associate vice president for Educator Preparation at UNI. “This program elevates the professional skills of our teacher education candidates and distinguishes them as they interview.”

More than 100 of UNI’s elementary and secondary teacher education candidates are participating in Professional Readiness for Educators. The program includes group training activities and individualized coaching sessions that introduce or reinforce important professional skills for succeeding in the teaching profession. The individualized coaching sessions are facilitated by retired UNI alumni who are former educators.

This program is having a direct impact on students and their confidence. Autumn Lauen, a freshman English Teaching major from Lake Mills summed up her feelings after the initial session, “I felt so energized and empowered after the first meeting, and I’ve never felt more confident in my decision to become a teacher!”

UNI’s Professional Readiness for Educators Program is yet another example of how UNI is a leader in educator preparation.