The University of Wisconsin–Superior was founded in 1893 as a teacher education college. That strong legacy of innovation and quality continues to guide its education programs today. Whether focused on early childhood, K–9 elementary instruction, secondary education, art, music, physical education or special education, UW–Superior offers programs that prepare students to become educators who make a lasting impact.

This year, UW–Superior’s Department of Education welcomed its largest cohort of student teachers in residency in several years. Its legacy still is dedicated to preparing superior candidates.

“The licensure programs at UW–Superior demand a balance between rigor and relevance to prepare teachers for the realities and complexities of PK–12 education,” said Nicholle Schuelke, associate professor of teacher education and chair of the Department of Education. “Our program is committed to helping teacher candidates understand the humanity of teaching.”

This cohort includes 72 students preparing for licensure in early childhood education, elementary education, special education, early childhood special education, English education, art education, music education, physical education and adaptive physical education, and mathematics education.

“Teaching is a human endeavor—it requires kindness, understanding, and respect,” Schuelke added. “But acknowledging the humanity of teaching also means recognizing its challenges, including the importance of teacher well-being. Our student teachers graduate from UW–Superior equipped not only to teach but to thrive and remain resilient in their careers.”

Of the students, 56 are completing their residencies in Wisconsin—spread across large and small communities throughout the state. An additional 15 students are placed in Minnesota, and one student is in Michigan.

While UW-Superior’s programs are designed to align with Wisconsin state licensure requirements, many students apply for licenses in other states, such as Michigan and Minnesota. Students are encouraged to check with their state’s educator licensing agency to determine if there are additional requirements.

“This geographic distribution is typical each term—we consistently have students in various regions of Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and are proud to support our candidates to serve in their communities,” Schuelke said.

Few professions evolve as rapidly as teaching, requiring ongoing professional development, awareness of best practices, and updated licensure and certification.

The same applies to institutions that prepare teachers.

“More than three-quarters of our students are non-traditional,” Schuelke noted. “Many come with prior experience in K–12 schools as paraprofessionals, educational assistants, or substitute teachers. Through our licensure programs, they’re now ready to take the next step in their professional journey.”