Professor lecturing to group in large classroom

Baker Teacher Leader Center

The Linda R. Baker Teacher Leader Center is a comprehensive professional development center and professional learning commons designed to create the next generation of 21st century teachers, leaders, scholars and innovators.

The Teacher Leader Center adds value and vitality to the teacher education experience and enhances the marketability of our professional students and scholars through unique programs that are highly relevant to today’s education.

Young woman works with elementary student

Teacher Leader Certificate

The Teacher Leader Certificate is a series of competencies and experiences in the areas of assessment, technology, diversity and community engagement offered through workshops, and community partnerships to encourage strong classroom leadership skills among teacher education students.

Professional Development

Teachers can earn Iowa Licensure Renewal Credit through relevant, research and evidence-based professional development workshops and courses.

_{*University of Iowa Alumni receive a 10% discount on all professional development courses and workshops offered through the Baker Teacher Leader Center.}

College of Education students teaching a class in Thailand

Global Education Initiatives

The College of Education is known for its engagement across the globe. This dedication to studying abroad is exemplified through research, collaborative international teaching experiences, and community service.

Educator Wellness Video Podcast Series

The Scanlan Center for School Mental Health and the Baker Teacher Leader Center are proud to offer the 2022-2023 Educator Wellness Video Podcast Series. Featuring national wellness experts, the 8-part series is designed to enrich personal wellness dimensions, translating into healthier social-emotional-behavioral health practices in the PreK-12 schools. Earn one free Iowa Licensure Renewal Credit if you attend all eight!

Students in a classroom listening to a presentation

Partnerships and Programs

From regional collaborations with Iowa school districts to innovative global academic opportunities, our robust programs and partnerships provide support and programming for students interested in exploring education as a future career.

News

U.S. Department of Education grant addresses teacher shortage, diversifies workforce

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Natalie Dunlap

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded the UI College of Education a $1.26 million grant for a program that will partner with Iowa school districts, community colleges, and community partners. The program will support 40 high quality elementary teachers through coursework and field experiences, resulting in a Bachelor of Arts, a teaching license, and a K12 ESL endorsement in Iowa.

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

Korean Traditional Music and Drumming Workshop

Saturday, April 27, 2024 9:00am to 12:00pm

Voxman Music Building

This is being advertised by the BTLC! Please view the description for how to register. BTLC Credit: 1 IS Credit for attending the first hour; 2 IS Credits for attending the whole session Presenter: Dr. Soojin Lee, MacPhail residency artist at the MacPhail Center in Minnesota Description: This workshop provides a unique opportunity to experience the sounds of Korea through a hands-on music experience and to enhance cultural awareness and understanding of Korean culture. The first part is open...

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Do you identify as a BIPOC student?

For resources, community events, and offerings, visit: Supporting BIPOC Students

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.