Transitioning Paraprofessionals into Teachers (TPT)
Preparing bilingual paraprofessionals for licensing as elementary/bilingual teachers.
Program
The Transitioning Paraprofessionals into Teachers (TPT) program is a federally funded program designed to provide a course of study for bilingual paraprofessionals to earn an elementary education teaching license with bilingual and ESL endorsements. The TPT program is offered through the School of Teaching and Learning at Illinois State University.
The purpose of the program:
- To prepare bilingual paraprofessionals for licensing as elementary/bilingual and ESL teachers
- To help participating bilingual paraprofessionals understand the psychological and sociological settings pertinent to bilingual/bicultural children
- To develop theoretical competencies in participating bilingual paraprofessionals through specialized elementary and bilingual educational studies
- To address the shortage of licensed bilingual educators as program participants will commit to work in a high-needs school for three years
Curriculum
The curriculum is based on the state of Illinois’ required courses for the Type 03 elementary education license with the required courses for bilingual and ESL endorsements. The courses will be offered at the University Center in Grayslake, IL. The structure of the program includes a curriculum that leads to a baccalaureate degree from Illinois State University.
Faculty
The faculty consists of educators who possess experiences in various aspects of elementary teacher education and bilingual/bicultural educators with experiences in bilingual/ESL education. Other faculty members with appropriate academic preparation provide support through the delivery of courses and workshops.