Certificate in Special Education Leadership

A critical need exists for program administrators who are prepared to meet the unique requirements of exceptional learners and those who teach them. The Special Education Leadership Certificate is designed to address this significant need. This certificate provides training for those who administer or lead program implementation efforts for learners with exceptional needs. Each course has been planned in accordance with professional standards and current research to maximize the effectiveness of the program. This certificate is appropriate for central office personnel in special education, building level supervisors of special education, and lead teachers/department chairs. It is also appropriate for general education administrators who have an interest in expanding their knowledge and skills regarding special education program administration.

The long-term goal of the Special Education Leadership Certificate is to better prepare program administrators to support the educational needs of a diverse collection of learners, both directly and indirectly. The objective of this program is to prepare program administrators in the knowledge and skills necessary for leading school reform in which all participants in the educational process are led to better support each and every learner. The Certificate in Special Education Leadership is currently structured as follows:

Required Courses

EDSE 743: Leadership in Special Education Administration
Designed to provide a context for creating opportunities in school settings for learners with exceptional needs. Recommended as the first course in the certificate program.

EDSE 744: Current Issues in Special Education
Designed to provide cutting-edge updates. Recommended as the last course in the certificate program.

Possible Courses (select three depending upon outcome goal)

EDSE 626: The Inclusive Classroom
Designed to help school leaders facilitate inclusive instruction for students with disabilities in general education classes.

EDSE 701: Legal Issues and Special Populations
Designed to provide legal context regarding litigation and legislation related to building programs for learners with special needs.

EDSE 702: Managing Resources for Special Education Programs
Designed as a functional course where the day-to-day operations of delivering specially designed curricula is the focus.

EDSE 703: Creating a Collaborative Culture
Designed to assist in developing partnerships to aid in service delivery. Also offers strategies for conflict resolution when difficult interactions exist.

This certificate is a logical opportunity for students in the Special Education (EDSE) program who have an interest in becoming special education directors, program coordinators, department chairs, or lead teachers. However, opportunities beyond special education also exist. The certificate has the potential to be partnered with the Advanced Studies in Teaching and Learning (ASTL) program or the Educational Leadership (EDLE) program for candidates to attain a Master’s degree. In the future, it may also be possible to earn state licensure in Administration and Supervision of PK-12 with a concentration in Special Education Leadership in conjunction with the EDLE program. Additionally, by offering most of these courses at the 700 level, doctoral candidates also have the opportunity to minor or specialize in Special Education Leadership.

If you have any questions about the proposed certificate or courses, please contact Jancy Templeton at 703-993-2387 or jtemple1@gmu.edu.