The following message is from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Bureau of Special Education (BSE) and PaTTAN.

Dear Special Education Educator Prep Programs Faculty,  
We are excited to announce cohort 3 of the Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification Grant. 

Purpose:
BSE, is requesting applications from Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) who partner with one or more Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide individuals who currently hold bachelor’s degrees an accelerated program with the required college/university coursework, summer field experiences, mentoring, coaching, and student teaching to obtain their PK-12 special education teaching certification in accordance with PA Public School Code Section 12-1207.1, Postbaccalaureate certification within an 18-month period.

Eligibility:
Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) in collaboration with one or more Local Education Agencies.

Funding:

• Up to $100,000. Initial grant awards will be determined based on projected student enrollment submitted in the application. Final budget allocations may be adjusted following verification of spring 2026 rosters. 
• All grant funds must be expended by December 31, 2027.  
• The final reimbursement form is due no later than January 31, 2028. 

Timeline:

• Application Open: December 11, 2025 
• Deadline: 11:59 PM on Sunday, February 1, 2026
• Awards Announced: February 2026 

Application materials, including a recorded overview of the grant requirements, request for application (RFA), and a PDF of the application, are available on the APR Repository – 2026-2027 PK 12 Accelerated Special Education Teacher Certification Grant.

Questions? Contact Meredith Penner, at mpenner@pattankop.net.