PA Grant Boosts Alvernia University’s Special Educator Program

Alvernia University has received crucial funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Bureau of Special Education, participating in the Accelerated Special Educator Certification Program aimed at addressing the state’s special education teacher shortage. This grant enables Alvernia to offer an accelerated post-baccalaureate program, allowing working professionals to earn PK-12 special education certification within 18 months through virtual instruction, summer field experiences, and year-round mentoring. The university’s enhanced partnerships with local education intermediary units, including the Chester County Intermediate Unit, further expand access to this impactful program across multiple school districts, actively contributing to a stronger, more qualified workforce of special educators in Pennsylvania.