Welcome to the SpEd Teacher Pathway Program

  • The Special Education Teacher Pathway Program Grant is funded by the Minnesota Department of Education under Minnesota Statutes 2023, section 122A.77. This grant is designed to address the critical shortage of licensed Special Education teachers by building a sustainable pipeline of trained, licensed Tier 3 or Tier 4 Special Education professionals.

    SWWC was awarded a $3 million grant in March 2024 to support teacher licensure in our region until January 2029 or until funding runs out. The program’s primary goals include:
    • Reducing Financial Barriers: Providing financial support such as scholarships and access to grants for tuition, books, and other grant approved expenses.
    • Removing Programmatic Barriers: Offering guidance, mentorship, and resources to ensure participants can successfully complete the requirements for licensure.
    • Developing High-Quality Educators: Equipping participants with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience necessary to thrive as Special Education teachers in Southwest Minnesota schools.
    • Increasing the number of Fully Licensed Special Educators: Prioritizing current Tier 1 and 2 special educators who are not properly licensed to becoming fully licensed Tier 3 or 4 educators in Southwest Minnesota Schools.

    Through this grant program, SWWC and our partners (District and University) are committed to addressing the growing need for licensed Special Education teachers in regions 6 and 8 while fostering a supportive pathway for individuals pursuing this rewarding career.

    Application to the Program
    Next Application Round Opens: October 1, 2025
    Application Due Date for Spring 2026 start: October 15, 2025

    Priority Candidates for 2025–26 School Year
    We will prioritize applicants who have an immediate need to become properly licensed for their current special education teaching roles. This includes:
    • Tier I or II teachers currently serving in special education teaching roles
    • Tier III or IV teachers not yet properly licensed serving in special education teaching roles
    • *There is a pause on accepting any additional candidates outside the priority applicants listed above for the 2025-26 school year. 

    Program Funding Disclaimer
    Participation in the SWWC Special Education Teacher Pathway Program does not guarantee financial support. All funding decisions are made at the sole discretion of SWWC and are subject to change at any time for any reason, including but not limited to budget availability, program priorities, candidates not meeting program requirements, and changes in state or federal funding. Applicants and participants are encouraged to plan accordingly and seek additional financial aid resources when possible.

Program Contact