Heartland AEA Now Part of UNI’s Grow Your Own School Psychologist Program

Spread the word to potential school psychologists!

About the Program
The University of Northern Iowa (UNI), in partnership with seven of Iowa’s AEAs, is offering a collaborative “grow your own” program that trains new school psychologists to increase access to mental health services in high-need, rural Iowa schools. Participants earn an Ed.S. in school psychology through UNI while continuing to work full-time. Upon graduation, students commit to serving as AEA school psychologists in rural areas, helping address critical local needs.

Two pathways are available:

• Bachelor’s track: For educators currently working in schools (teachers, paraprofessionals, etc.); Ed.S. in 4 years
• Master’s track: For professionals in education and related fields; Ed.S. in 3 years
• Two cohorts of ~12 students each (Cohort 1 begins in June 2026, Cohort 2 begins in Summer 2027)

Why It Matters
Iowa faces a critical shortage of school psychologists. While NASP recommends 1 psychologist per 500 students, current ratios in Iowa range from 1:1,657 to 1:7,857, limiting student access to mental health supports.

Program Benefits
Financial support: books provided each semester, travel costs covered for instructional sessions, 90% of tuition and fees covered through grants, internship licensure and national exam fees paid

• Part-time study while working full-time
• Strong professional engagement

Service Commitment

• Graduates commit to 3 years of service in their AEA after completion
• Early departure may require repayment of some program costs

Learn More!
Jan. 26, 2026 | 3:30–4:30 PM, Zoom link, Passcode: 724638
Jan. 27, 2026 | 4:00–5:00 PM, Zoom link, Passcode: 249336