What is Project TIES?

   

Preparing Teachers for Inclusive Education in positive Schools, Project TIES, is a teacher preparation program aimed at strengthening ties between general and special education, while preparing teachers to work more effectively with students who display challenging behavior. This Masters Degree program in Special Education leads to a Learning and Behavior Specialist II, advanced endorsement, in Behavior Intervention.

     Through Project TIES, approximately 150 special educators will be provided with either initial or advanced certificates over a 4-year period. Project TIES will offer 3 options: a) full time, on- campus undergraduate and graduate degree programs leading to initial certification; b) part-time on- campus master’s degree program for practicing teachers; c) part-time off-campus master’s degree program for practicing Chicago Public School teachers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

        In attempting to address the increasing need for teachers who specialize in content related to working with students with behavior disorders and those with challenging behavior, the State of Illinois offers an advanced certificate (Learning and Behavior Specialist II) to practicing professionals who hold an Illinois Type 10 LBSI certificate. Currently there is a significant need for teachers to serve as Behavior Intervention Specialists, particularly in the CPS. This program will be one of only two in the state providing LBSII certification in this area of specialization.  Graduate in the TIES program will participate in:

       Specialized Coursework and Field Experiences. A cluster of courses relevant to the LBSII Behavior Intervention Specialization in addition to courses in collaboration, diversity, and teaming. Participants also will complete unique specialized field experience that offers opportunities to work with students with EBD and/or their families. For example, a student may do an internship with a behavioral consultant or consult with teachers in a juvenile detention facility. All field experiences provide candidates with an opportunity for advanced study for the purposes of (a) applying the knowledge and skills from coursework and (b) meeting the State of Illinois LBS II Content Standards.

       Applied Research. The culminating activity in the program will be an applied “innovative project” focused on implementing interventions for students with EBD. Through this project, candidates will have the opportunity to investigate promising practices, attitudes and beliefs, and other questions of interest related to EBD populations.