Special Education Work Group

On March 28, 2007, the Department convened a Special Education Work Group to review the certification requirements and structure for teachers of students with disabilities. As detailed in a February 2007 report to the Board of Regents, which can be found on the Web at www.regents.nysed.gov/2007Meetings/February2007/0207heppd3.htm, the work group is exploring opportunities for streamlining the certification structure to help address shortages of special education teachers in grades 7 - 12.

The 26-member Group includes individuals representing P-12 schools, higher education, parent and child advocacy organizations, teacher unions, and others. At the meeting, participants began to define the issues and brainstorm solutions, ultimately organizing into three focus teams (Early Childhood/Childhood, Adolescence, and Alternative Teacher Preparation).

The teams are preparing proposals and recommendations to inform upcoming discussions with the Board of Regents. After a period for public comment, the Department expects to recommend any necessary regulation changes in the fall. The Group, individual members, and others as needed, may continue on to work with us to support the recruitment and retention of special education teachers in New York State. If changes in the special education certification structure are approved by the Regents, new preparation programs could begin as early as the fall of 2008. We will keep you posted on future developments.