On September 8th, please bring a copy of Dr. Suess' book The Cat in the Hat.

        UIC Mission Statement
The Meanings and Practice of Education in Democratic Life:
The Preparation of Professional Educators at UIC
Executive Summary of the Conceptual Framework

One of the most culturally diverse campuses in the United States, the University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university that prepares educators to work successfully in urban communities. Graduates from UIC professional education programs - teachers, school administrators, school social workers, and school nurses - are committed, knowledgeable, and effective educators.  UIC educators are committed to the democratic ideal of developing the full potential of all students.  They develop their own professional knowledge through study and critical analysis.  They demonstrate effective practices consistent with their professional knowledge and ideals.


UIC Educators are Committed.

UIC educators are committed to the democratic ideal of developing each student’s full human potential.  They dedicate themselves to the continuing development of their own abilities to educate all students in the face of social and educational inequalities rooted in race, class, language, gender, disability, and other social differences. They understand and value the cultural and linguistic wealth of each student’s community; collaborate with other professionals and community members to support student success; and assess their own growth in achieving the highest goals of the profession.

UIC Educators are Knowledgeable.

Educators are knowledgeable about the content of their field, human growth and development, and the creation of rich learning environments.  They understand as well how these elements intersect to support student learning.  But knowledge alone is not sufficient. UIC educators also reflect critically on what they know, questioning common assumptions, taking into account competing perspectives, and remaining open to growth and change.

UIC Educators are Effective.

UIC educators are competent practitioners who demonstrate the complex skills of professionals in their fields.  This competence is developed as candidates work collaboratively with more experienced mentors who help them reflect on and refine their practice in intensive, school-based experiences.  As candidates assume increasingly greater responsibility in these practical settings, they come to understand that they are learning a craft that can never be mastered.