The State of Illinois currently has an Elementary Certificate (Type 03, which covers grades K-9) and a Secondary Certificate (Type 09, which covers grades 6-12). There is no certificate specifically geared toward the middle school; grades 6-9 are covered by either a Type 03 or a Type 09. However, in recognition of the fact that middle school-aged students are in a different stage of life than either elementary or high school-aged students, a Middle School Endorsement has been instituted to focus specifically on issues of concern in the instruction of early adolescents. Though a Middle School Endorsement is not yet a requirement for employment at all middle schools, many do require it, or at least consider the endorsement a preferred qualification for employment. In time, a separate certificate to cover grades 6-9 may be developed.
If you are interested in teaching at the middle school level and receiving a Middle School Endorsement, you should apply to the either the Elementary or Secondary Teaching concentration and indicate that you intend to pursue the endorsement. The Middle School Endorsement involves two or three classes, which can be taken to fulfill elective requirements for either concentration. At the middle school level, there is more differentiation in the classroom based on specific subject areas (math, science, language arts). As such, even if you apply for the Elementary Teaching concentration (which does not normally require a subject area focus), you must indicate the subject area you wish to teach. These requirements are similar to those required of teachers in the Secondary Teaching concentration although fewer hours within the subject are required to teach at the middle school level.
To request an information packet or to ask specific questions about the Middle School Endorsement, please contact the MSEd program office electronically or call 847/467-1458.
Curriculum