On behalf of the dedicated faculty and staff of LLDSE, I am thrilled to welcome you to our vibrant and diverse department. Our commitment to educational excellence is reflected in the more than 10 academic programs we offer, which encompass a wide range of fields, including special education, literacy education, educational leadership (K-12 and higher education), and training and development.
We are passionate about advancing both undergraduate and graduate education with a focus on making a meaningful impact on the communities we serve. Our programs are designed to foster critical reflection, skill development, and the practical application of theory in professional settings. We take immense pride in our alumni, who contribute to schools, universities, and businesses throughout the Chicago metropolitan area and beyond. Our faculty members are not only committed to teaching but also actively engage in rigorous research and continuous professional development to enhance their instructional practices. Many serve as leaders in professional societies and contribute to editorial boards of respected journals, while others hold positions on school and foundation boards, further enriching our academic community.
The LLDSE Department offers an exceptional educational environment, rich with opportunities for growth and collaboration. I encourage you to explore our department website, where you can find detailed information about our faculty, the courses we offer, and contact information for our administrative staff. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a program coordinator for more information about a specific program of study.
We are excited to have you join us and look forward to supporting you on your educational journey!
Sincerely,
Dr. Russell Wartalski
Department Chair & Associate Professor
The Department of Literacy, Leadership, Development, and Special Education offers the following programs:
