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

BTLC Newsletter - May 2025

Read the latest BTLC Newsletter!

Illustration of alumna and donor, Linda R. Baker

A tribute to Linda Baker

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

Supporting Anxious Students

Monday, February 9, 2026 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Virtual

In this webinar, participants will be provided an overview of anxiety disorders and common symptoms, as well as strategies for supporting anxious students at home and school. This webinar will also offer an introduction to Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), an empirically-validated treatment for anxiety and OCD.

Move More, Teach Better: Simple Strategies to Integrate More Physical Activity Into Your Day

Wednesday, February 18, 2026 5:00pm to 5:45pm

Virtual

February is Active Classrooms Month! Join us for an energizing and practical webinar designed to help educators integrate more movement into their workday. Research shows that even small amounts of physical activity improve focus, mood, and academic outcomes—for students and adults alike. Learn realistic strategies to increase your physical activity throughout the school day without adding stress to your schedule.

K-12 Educator Career Fair Prep

Tuesday, February 24, 2026 1:00pm to 5:00pm

Lindquist Center

The Baker Teacher Leader Center is excited to announce that the 2026 K-12 Educator Career Fair Prep will be offered again this year and hosted by Pomerantz Center Career Coaches!

Get tools and strategies to navigate the K-12 Educator Career Fair!

Build confidence!

Receive resume tips!

Review elevator pitches!

Learn networking strategies!

Hear from past attendees on the value of the Prep:

“I found it really helpful, especially for resume tips. I enjoyed having someone in the education field who could...

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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.

BTLC Room Reservations

To help us provide appropriate facilities support, door access, technology assistance, and event planning services, BTLC room reservation requests by UI faculty/staff/students must be submitted at:

Lindquist Room Reservations

For non-university/external individuals or entities, reservation requests must be submitted at:

Reservation Request

For BTLC space inquiries, contact Lisa Bunn at lisa-bunn@uiowa.edu

BTLC Facility Policies and Procedures

College of Education