Where They Live and Work Ken Riley of Onalaska was concerned that earning a master's degree in education would force him to spend too much time away from his family. Many teachers like Riley, who completed his master's degree at UW-La Crosse in May 2000, wouldn't be able to participate otherwise. Classes are held once a month, all day Saturday and Sunday. The intense weekends provide extended periods of time to explore topics, share ideas and reinforce efforts.
Teachers say they return to their schools motivated, excited and full of new ideas.
What distinguishes this program from traditional ones is the way information is conveyed-students apply knowledge as soon as they gain it. Another 179 educators expect to graduate in May 2001. Approximately 200 educators were expected to begin in fall 2000. At UW-Stevens Point, where the program is a joint effort between the School of Education and UWSP Extension, the first 52 graduates completed the program in May 2000. This represents a 100 percent completion rate.