The College of Education
 

Bilingual Paraprofessionals in Transition
Teachers for All Children

Learn more

Contact Us

BPT Program Office
Campus Box 5300
Normal, IL 61790-5300
Phone: (309) 438-8636

Project Director:
(309) 438-8636

Project Coordinator:
(309) 438-1488

Project Assistant:
(309) 438-2094

Project Advisor:
(309) 438-8768

Application information

As of May 2009, applications are no longer being accepted for this program.

Selection criteria

The program is limited to 75 qualified candidates, based on a competitive application process. To enter the program, participants must meet the following criteria:

  • hold a bilingual paraprofessional or teacher assistant position,
  • have two or more years or experience as a school paraprofessional,
  • have a two-year degree (or its equivalent) that meets Illinois State University's General Education requirements,
  • have completed four teacher preparation courses (Foundations in literature for children, Exceptional learner, Structure of number systems II, Explaining Human Behavior)
  • submit a recommendation form completed by your school principal or immediate supervisor,
  • agree to teach for three years in a high-needs school in a high-needs district, or repay the stipend

Expectations

Participants are expected to work three years in a high-needs school or repay the stipend. Participants are not guaranteed a job in their current school upon certification. They will be able to apply for a position at their school and within their school district, but if there are no openings, participants will have to find a position in another high-needs school in a high-needs district.

Costs

There will be minimal additional costs, such as certification tests and some class materials. For financial aid information, please contact (309) 438-8636