Baker Teacher Leader Center

The Linda R. Baker Teacher Leader Center is a transformative space where educators are empowered to excel throughout their careers. Aligned with our mission to advance comprehensive teacher development and well-being, the center serves as a catalyst for lifelong learning, professional growth, and innovative practices in education.

We believe that thriving educators create thriving classrooms. That’s why we prioritize the holistic well-being of teachers, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where both pre-service and in-service educators can explore new strategies, strengthen their leadership skills, and build a vibrant professional community.

With a commitment to integrity, continuous improvement, and educational excellence, the Baker Teacher Leader Center provides tailored programs that meet the diverse needs of today's educators. Whether you're starting your teaching journey or seeking advanced leadership opportunities, our center equips you with the skills and insights to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact in education.

Join us at the Baker Teacher Leader Center, where we unlock potential, nurture well-being, and redefine what it means to be a leader in education.

Young woman works with elementary student

Pre-Service Professional Development Opportunities

Discover everything you need to kickstart your journey as a future educator, including the BTLC professional development certificate, upcoming workshops, and essential resources to support your growth.

In-Service Professional Development Opportunities

Explore BTLC’s professional learning opportunities, earn licensure renewal credits, and find ways to share your expertise with fellow educators.

Educator Wellness Podcasts

Listen to inspiring episodes focused on educator wellness, with insights to support your well-being—and earn licensure renewal credit for completing a season!

News

Illustration of alumna and donor, Linda R. Baker

A tribute to Linda Baker

Monday, January 8, 2024

Linda R. Baker, College of Education alumna and passionate supporter of education, died Dec. 27 at age 77. Her legacy lives on in the many profound and positive contributions she and her husband Dale have made over the years. The Baker Teacher Leader Center in the UI College of Education is named in her honor.

Upcoming BTLC Events

Solstice Serenity: Embracing Winter’s Calm

Thursday, December 19, 2024 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Virtual

Please register here. BTLC Credit: IS, SEBMH Presenter: Amy Andreassen Description: Educators give so much of themselves throughout the year, often reaching the holiday season feeling stretched thin, exhausted, and in need of renewal. The winter solstice offers a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and turn toward the promise of light in the new year. This one-hour webinar is designed to help educators honor this natural turning point with simple, mindful self-care practices that embrace...

2025 Emerging Educators Academy Conference

Saturday, January 11, 2025 9:00am to 4:00pm

Please register here. Registration deadline: December 20, 2024. BTLC Credit: TEP students in the Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) Track, you can earn up to 3 BTLC Credits for attending the whole conference; TEP students in other tracks, you can earn up to 2 BTLC Credits (2 workshops of your choice). For more information, please click here.

Social Media Smarts: Navigating Sleep and Mental Health for K-12 Teachers and Parents

Monday, January 27, 2025 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Virtual

Please register here. BTLC Credit: IS, SEBMH Presenter: Bengi Baran, PhD, Assistant Professor, Psychological and Brain Sciences Description: Social media has received significant attention as a culprit for the ongoing youth mental health crisis, both on its own and indirectly by disrupting sleep and circadian rhythms. There are several emerging critical developments including U.S. Surgeon General's advisories on (1) the negative consequences of social media use and (2) the declining mental...

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Mission and Vision

The Baker Teacher Leader Center (BTLC) strives to offer evidence-based and innovative professional development and career advancement experiences, for both pre – and in-service educators, helping to advance our profession in ways that will affect positive change in our communities across the nation. We aspire to collaborate with content area experts and leaders to solve issues related to the field of education.

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