In this episode, we talk to Dr. Gary Higham, Associate Director of Clinical Experiences, Student teaching, and partnerships at Illinois State University. Dr. Higham describes available teacher education program pathways at Illinois State University, which serves as a large-scale model for smaller, regional institutions such as Governors State University.  We discuss possible challenges in finding field experience placements for so many students. Dr. Higham explains the “pay it forward” mentality that keeps educator preparation programs going and the incentives that districts and universities can use to attract mentors to new teacher development.