HARRISBURG PA – Four educational facilities in Montgomery, Berks, and Chester counties won state funding Monday (July 22, 2024) to grow Pennsylvania’s special education workforce.
A total of 77 school entities statewide shared $1.4 million from the state Department of Education. The funds will be invested in attracting students to become future teachers of those with special needs.
Area winners included the Pottstown School District, Montgomery County, receiving $17,200; the Fleetwood Area School District, Berks County, $20,000; Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Berks, $19,949; and Chester County Intermediate Unit 24, $20,000.
Joe Ciresi, 146th District state representative for Montgomery County, praised the Pottstown district as a recipient.
“Kids in special education classes need teachers who are specially trained to understand their unique needs, and provide the necessary support so they can flourish,” Ciresi said. Given a statewide teacher shortage, “this money will create new learning opportunities” for Pottstown students, he added.
Programs targeted for results
The grants are expected to inspire “today’s students to become tomorrow’s teachers,” department Secretary Dr. Khalid N. Mumin noted. “By investing in hands-on learning and career exploration opportunities, (the state is) laying the foundation to support Pennsylvania’s students for decades to come,” Mumin said.
In programs outlined by the 77 winners, high school and college students will learn about supporting students with disabilities. They are anticipated to participate in “structured activities, programs, and events with guidance and oversight from current educators,” according to the department. Its goal: to recruit future special education professionals locally.
The grants are part of the department’s efforts to recruit and retain teachers in Pennsylvania, it reported. It hopes to ensure “there is a robust pipeline of educators in place to provide a high-quality education to learners of all ages across the state,” it added.
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