Drake University introduces teacher intern program for aspiring educators • Iowa Capital Dispatch

Drake University Launches Teacher Intern Program for Career Changers

Drake University is breaking new ground in the field of education with the launch of its Teacher Intern Program, designed to provide individuals with a passion for teaching, who have taken a different career path, the opportunity to earn their teaching credentials and a master’s degree while gaining valuable in-classroom experience.

The program, approved by the Iowa State Board of Education in March, is a two-year program that will immerse students with a bachelor’s degree in any field and at least three years of professional experience into the world of teaching. The first year will focus on coursework, while the second year will involve hands-on training in a real classroom setting.

Drake School of Education Dean Ryan Wise emphasized that the program was created to remove barriers for individuals who may wish to become teachers but are currently locked into a different job or facing obstacles in pursuing traditional teaching education. The program is set to launch in the fall, with a growing interest from potential candidates.

Courses in the program will cover essential teaching foundations such as planning, assessment, technology integration, and subject-specific methodologies. Upon completion of the required credits, students will obtain their intern teaching license and have the opportunity to work as fully paid and licensed teachers in partner school districts.

Des Moines Public Schools will serve as the flagship partner for the intern program, with plans to expand to more districts across central Iowa in the future. The program sets itself apart by offering a master’s degree in addition to licensure, providing students with the opportunity for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Drake University’s innovative approach to teacher education is not only a significant step for the institution but also a testament to its commitment to meeting the educational needs of the community and state. With the Teacher Intern Program, Drake is paving the way for a new generation of educators to make a difference in the classroom.