Accelerated Elementary Education Degree Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a paraprofessional or a substitute teacher to apply to this program? 

While many of our graduates have a paraeducator or substitute teaching background, this program can be for anyone interested in teaching elementary education K-6 and/or Special Education K-12. 

*Because students are responsible for securing their own observation and clinical hours prior to their student teaching placement, the student will need access to an elementary school for their observation and clinical hours.  

Can I student teach where I am currently working as a paraeducator or as a substitute teacher, and still get paid? 

As of July 1, 2024, there are options available to student teach while you are working which are determined by the approval of your current employer. You can submit requests for your student teaching placement the semester before it occurs.  

*Please note, your school district where you are employed determines your pay while student teaching.  

How many weeks is my student teaching? 

16 weeks 

At Clarke, we provide the student with 16 weeks for student teaching. This allows days for flexibility in case of emergency absence or sick days (life happens!), or to sub for the mentor teacher for a few days if needed.  

How might SF2411 impact my time spent student teaching? 

On July 1, 2024, new legislation went into effect that allows for a reduction in student teaching for some qualified student teaching candidates who hold either a substitute or paraprofessional authorization through the State of Iowa. Specifics of this legislation can be found by visiting SF 2411, Sec. 15.  Section 256.16, subsection 1, paragraph c, Code 2024, at https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=90&ba=SF%202411   

This legislation allows for a reduction of up to 10 weeks (about 2 and a half months) of student teaching for paraeducators or substitute teachers with qualifying previous work experience. All student teachers will still need at least 4 weeks of student teaching.  

Qualifying previous work experience can be paraprofessional or substitute teaching experience if the following are met:  

1. In a classroom in the grade level in which the teacher candidate is getting certification.  
2. In a classroom in the subject area in which the candidate is getting certification (including special education).  
3. Under the direct supervision of a teacher who holds the authorization the candidate is seeking (IF THE CANDIDATE WAS SUBBING WHEN THERE WAS NOT another teacher in the classroom holding the license the candidate is seeking, IT CANNOT COUNT. If there was a co-teacher in the classroom who held the appropriate license, it can count.)  

*Please note that a full placement of 16 weeks (about 3 months) is recommended for best practices, and everyone in the program can choose to complete the traditional full student teaching  placement.  

Is it possible to complete this accelerated program full-time while working full-time? 

Yes! While this program is accelerated, it is specifically tailored to adults with busy lifestyles. 

Can I start classes earlier than the summer start date? 

If you have general education requirements not yet met, these can be taken before the May start term. The education core classes for the program cannot be taken before the May start term begins.  

How do I know if I need any general education courses before I start in May? 

Once you have been accepted into the program and after your deposit, our licensure officer will review your college transcripts.