Intermediate School District 917 and their member districts are
continuing their partnership with the University of St. Thomas this upcoming
fall 2022 to provide a pathway for employees to earn their teaching license in
special education while working for ISD 917 (or a member district).
The Work and Learn (WAL) Program aims to recruit, prepare, retain, and support
highly qualified paraprofessionals and Tier 1 and Tier 2 teachers on their
journey to become a Tier 3 licensed teacher! Candidates from underrepresented
backgrounds who reflect our diverse student populations are strongly encouraged
to apply.
The fall 2022 cohort will be the fourth cohort to learn and
obtain licensure through this unique and specialized partnership. Your work in
the district will lessen the cost and the credits needed for licensure and
provide hands-on experience and support to prepare you for success in your
future teaching career. The program provides an affordable, accessible, and
accelerated program to earn an Academic and Behavior Strategist (ABS) teaching
license and master’s degree in 2.5 years. An additional special education
license is ultimately required to work in ISD 917’s programs, which is easily
added with just a few additional credits.
PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS:
· Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
· Current or prospective employee of one of the partner districts
listed above
· Commitment to Special Education
Please note, the application process is two-part:
· Applications for the program at the district-level are due Friday March 18, 2022.
· If you are endorsed by the district, you then apply to St.
Thomas for final acceptance to the program.
If you know anyone who is not employed by ISD
917, but may be interested in this program, please encourage them to apply for
a position with the district! Don't forget about our referral program!