LBS1 Endorsement Program
Advance your teaching career by earning your LBS1 Endorsement
The LBS-1 Endorsement programs are pre-approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) through our partnership with Andrews University
In Partnership with
Unlock Your Potential in Special Education
Embark on your journey to becoming a highly qualified and compassionate special education professional with the LBS-1 endorsement. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your career, investing in specialized training and credentials can empower you to make a positive difference in the lives of students with disabilities and their families.
Ready to take the next step? Explore accredited programs, resources, and support services available to Illinois educators seeking to obtain their LBS-1 endorsement and embark on a rewarding path in special education. Your dedication and commitment to inclusive education are the keys to unlocking limitless opportunities for student success.
Unlocking Opportunities in Special Education: Your Path to LBS-1 Endorsement
Are you an educator in Illinois looking to expand your expertise and career opportunities in special education? The LBS-1 (Learning Behavior Specialist I) endorsement on your teaching license could be your gateway to a fulfilling journey in serving students with diverse learning needs.
What is the LBS-1 Endorsement?
The LBS-1 endorsement equips educators with specialized skills and knowledge to effectively support students with disabilities in various educational settings. Whether you're a general education teacher seeking to better serve students with special needs in your classroom or an aspiring special education teacher, obtaining the LBS-1 endorsement is a valuable step in advancing your career and making a meaningful impact on students' lives.
Why Pursue the LBS-1 Endorsement?
- Enhanced Skillset: Gain expertise in creating inclusive learning environments, designing individualized education plans (IEPs), implementing evidence-based instructional strategies, and effectively managing behavior challenges.
- Expanded Career Opportunities: Open doors to a wider range of career opportunities in special education, including positions as special education teachers, resource specialists, behavior interventionists, and instructional coaches.
- Increased Earning Potential: With specialized training and credentials, you may qualify for higher-paying positions and salary increments within your school district or educational organization.
How to Obtain Your LBS-1 Endorsement
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: To qualify for the LBS-1 endorsement, you must hold a valid Illinois teaching license in a content area or grade level and meet specific coursework and examination requirements outlined by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
- Complete Required Coursework: Enroll in our approved coursework that covers key topics in special education, such as assessment and evaluation, instructional methods, collaboration and consultation, and legal and ethical considerations. Courses may be offered through accredited colleges and universities, professional development providers, or online platforms.
- Pass LBS-1 Content Area Test: Successfully complete the Illinois LBS-1 content area test administered by the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS). The test assesses your knowledge and competencies in special education content areas and is a mandatory requirement for obtaining the endorsement.
- Apply for Endorsement: Once you have fulfilled all eligibility criteria, submit your application for the LBS-1 endorsement through the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) maintained by ISBE. Be sure to include documentation of your completed coursework and passing test scores.
- Maintain Endorsement: Keep your LBS-1 endorsement active by fulfilling any renewal requirements specified by ISBE, such as completing continuing education credits or professional development activities in special education.
When We Say Affordable, We Mean It.
Total tuition cost for either endorsement: $2,400. That's 12 hours at $200 per credit hour. No hidden application fees, book fees, technology fees, library fees, or anything else. Total transparency for your piece of mind.
As fellow teachers, we also know the limits of your time. That's why all of our endorsement courses are added to our online programs. This means each of your classes is only 5 weeks long and is delivered in an asynchronous format, meaning you can log in and complete assignments when you have time in your busy schedule. Multiple classes run at the same time, meaning you have choices in the speed you move through our program.
And unlike almost all of the other schools, we allow you to choose the order of the courses you want to take. There are no prerequisites, meaning you can jump in and start taking classes at any time.
We believe you should take classes when you are ready, therefore we're always ready to help you get started. No waiting lists here.
You also get to choose the speed of the program. Take 2 classes at a time and finish in as fast as 10 weeks, or space them out and take longer. We realize not everyone has the same schedule, or the same ability to pay. So we leave it up to you to decide how fast you want to go.
Courses and Competencies
To complete your ISBE approved LBS-1 Endorsement, you must complete these 4 courses below with a Grade of B or Higher.
After completing these 4 courses ISBE requires a passing score on the LBS I (155 or 290) test.
A different way to learn: ENDORSEMENT programs designed to fit your life—and all the demands on your time, resources and budget.
We understand that you have professional responsibilities, family obligations, and personal commitments. That’s why we offer a personalized, flexible and cost-effective approach to earn your LBS1 Endorsement. Our programs are developed “By ACTUAL Teachers for Teachers” and are personalized, career-focused and built to fit your life. Complete your LBS1 endorsement coursework using asynchronous online courses anytime and anywhere your schedule allows, and move through your studies and assessments as quickly as you are able.
- Each course takes only a short 5 weeks to complete.
- They run continuously through the year so take them in any order.
- Finish in less than 6 months or take your time.
- Pay as you go for each course or use our PayPal Later for monthly tuition payments.
See upcoming course schedules and dates
| Course # | Course Name | Universities | Instructor | Online Dates Offered | Register Now | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTI 509 | LBS I (cross-categorical) Methods | ANDREWS | Barb Rypstra | Dec 16 to Jan 19 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-509-lbs-i-cross-categorical-methods/ |
| MTI 510 | Psychological Diagnosis | ANDREWS | Joy De Los Santos | Dec 16 to Jan 19 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-510-psychological-diagnosis/ |
| MTI 507 | Survey of Exceptional Child | ANDREWS | Barb Rypstra | Jan 27 to Mar 2 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-507-survey-of-exceptional-child/ |
| MTI 508 | LBS I (cross-categorical) Characteristics | ANDREWS | Joy De Los Santos | Jan 27 to Mar 2 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-508-lbs-i-cross-categorical-characteristics/ |
| MTI 509 | LBS I (cross-categorical) Methods | ANDREWS | Barb Rypstra | Mar 10 to Apr 13 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-509-lbs-i-cross-categorical-methods/ |
| MTI 510 | Psychological Diagnosis | ANDREWS | Joy De Los Santos | Mar 10 to Apr 13 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-510-psychological-diagnosis/ |
| MTI 507 | Survey of Exceptional Child | ANDREWS | Barb Rypstra | Apr 12 to May 25 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-507-survey-of-exceptional-child/ |
| MTI 508 | LBS I (cross-categorical) Characteristics | ANDREWS | Joy De Los Santos | Apr 12 to May 25 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-508-lbs-i-cross-categorical-characteristics/ |
| MTI 509 | LBS I (cross-categorical) Methods | ANDREWS | Barb Rypstra | Jun 2 to July 6 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-509-lbs-i-cross-categorical-methods/ |
| MTI 510 | Psychological Diagnosis | ANDREWS | Joy De Los Santos | Jun 2 to July 6 | Register Now | https://www.midwestteachersinstitute.org/product/mti-510-psychological-diagnosis/ |
Please send other documentation that pertains to the license for which you applied to [email protected]. *Note: Official transcripts must be sent directly from the institution. If sent by educator, official transcripts must be in the sealed (unopened) envelope from the institution addressed to the educator. Once your license has been issued, you must register your license in your ELIS account and pay applicable registration fees. The license is not valid for employment until these fees are paid.To qualify for an evaluation, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
Educator Effectiveness - E240
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Empower Your Teaching Career with Endorsements
Welcome to Midwest Teachers Institute, where we champion educators' growth and advancement. In the ever-evolving field of education, standing out and keeping ahead means continuously expanding your skills and knowledge. Adding an endorsement to your teaching license signifies your dedication to excellence and your commitment to meeting diverse student needs. Explore how our graduate classes can pave the way for not just a pay raise but a rewarding, enriched teaching journey.
Why Add an Endorsement?
Broaden Your Impact
Gain specialized skills to support diverse learner needs, making a difference in students' lives.
Enhance Your Marketability
Stand out in the competitive job market with qualifications that schools are actively seeking.
Unlock Higher Salary Potential
Leverage your additional endorsements for salary advancements and secure your financial future.
Fulfill Professional Development Requirements
Meet your state's continuing education requirements while enhancing your teaching license.
Endorsement Program Spotlights
Designed for busy teachers
Pay as you go. Register for one course at a time
Payment plans available
Lowest Cost Programs in the Nation
Earn Your Endorsement with Ease
