The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), Bureau of Special Education, will be announcing the recipients of the 2026-2027 Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification Grant soon. 

Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) are partnering with one or more Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide individuals who currently hold bachelor’s degrees an accelerated program with the required college/university coursework, summer field experiences, mentoring, coaching, and student teaching to obtain their PK-12 special education teaching certification in accordance with PA Public School Code Section 12-1207.1, Postbaccalaureate certification. 

Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification 

Accelerated program participants will:

• Gain valuable experience through Summer Field Experiences beginning Summer 2026

• Learn strategies for addressing learning environment & engagement, classroom management, and positive behavior supports in Summer 2026

• Take courses on IEP development, structured literacy, and special education law in the Fall of 2026

• Receive support from a mentor and instructional coach (an experienced special education teacher) throughout the program 

Scholarships and additional supports vary by program. Contact the project coordinators listed below for more information. Requirements for this grant include:

Have questions or need more information? 

Contact - Meredith Penner - Project Lead or Christine Moon - APR State Lead