The U.S. Department of Education announced it would award nearly $20 million in grants to higher education institutions to help prepare special education personnel to improve services and results for children with disabilities. $13.5 million will help current and future special education professionals complete degrees, state certifications, professional licenses or other state endorsements in early intervention, special education or related services fields.
Funds will also support the preparation of special education paraprofessionals, assistants in related services professions (such as physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants) or educational interpreters. Additionally, more than $6 million will be devoted to “Preparation of Leadership Personnel” grants, which will support doctoral, post-doctoral and special education administration degree programs.
These grant programs are funded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act – Part D Support Programs, which are intended to assist in the delivery of special education service
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