Program Overview

Introduction to the Golden Apple Accelerators Program

The Golden Apple Accelerators Program is designed to address the teacher shortage in southern, central, and western Illinois by recruiting, preparing, and mentoring college seniors and non-educators with bachelor's degrees. The program aims to make a difference in classrooms in their communities.

Program Benefits

• Obtain a teaching license within 15 months
• Receive a value of up to $25,000 for education, with the majority paid directly to the institution of higher education
• One-year residency and training program in a targeted partner school district in southern, central, or western Illinois
• Mentoring in the first years of teaching
  • Partnering with Northern Illinois University (NIU) to earn master's degrees in addition to licensure within a 15-month time frame
  • Master's program offered in an online cohort model with customized content specific to the needs of the cohort participants
  • Dynamic scheduling model encourages shared learning experiences and integrated coursework throughout the program
  • Instructional coaching supports provided throughout the program

Eligibility Requirements

• College seniors attending universities or colleges who are not currently on a teaching pathway
• Career-changers who hold bachelor's degrees

Program Details

The program requires participants to commit to working in an Accelerator partner school for four years after completing the program. The master's program is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive education and training experience, preparing them for a successful teaching career.