About the Department

A mix of undergraduate and graduate programs. Ten-plus graduate certificates and endorsement pathways serving practicing teachers. Faculty who are teachers, scholars and mentors. All connected by passions in the fields of early childhood education, literacy education, school library studies and special education.  

Together, the Department of Literacy, Early Childhood and Special Education (LESE) faculty and staff share a commitment to extend a legacy of excellence. A tradition that has led to thousands of future early childhood educators, reading specialists, child care directors and staff, teacher librarians, special education strategists, instructional coaches and more.   

At the undergraduate level, we teach you how to teach, nurture special interests like literacy or special education and ensure you gain the experience you need in and out of the classroom to prosper. For our graduate students, we’re here to help you grow your careers as you deepen your knowledge and expertise in your chosen field of study. 

Sarah Vander Zanden, PhD, leads Literacy, Early Childhood and Special Education, which was created in 2025 as part of a new alignment of academic departments. With UNI since 2011, Vander Zanden holds the rank of professor and focuses her scholarly efforts on literacy education. She has long been associated with the UNI Literacy Clinic as director and as advisor for Student Literacy Association.