Add-On Special Education Teacher Certification
10 Sped Add-On Program
The 10 Sped Add-On Program is for teachers who already hold a teaching license in special education and want to add another certification area:
- Early Childhood Special Education (Birth to Grade 3)
- Cross Categorical Special Education (Grades K-12
10 Sped Add-On Program Information
What license will I have upon completing the program?
10 Sped Program completers are eligible for WI DPI Cross Categorical Special Education License #2801 or Early Childhood Special Education License #1809.
Where are classes offered?
The self-paced 10 Sped Program Add-On course is online. Students must conduct independent research to complete the assignments within the timeframe described below. The student teaching experience can take place in the district the student chooses.
How is the program structured?
The 10 Sped Add-On Program consists of one online course and a student teaching experience. Students must demonstrate proficiency during student teaching at either the Early Childhood Special Education level (Birth-Grade 3) or the Cross Categorical Special Education level (K-12) as observed by their cooperating teacher and Educate Pathways supervisor. Both evaluations can be conducted during the same lesson. The lesson must be taught within the time frame described below.
Which tests are required?
Content Knowledge - Students must demonstrate proficiency in content knowledge related to their certification area(s). Proficiency can be demonstrated by either:
- 3.0 GPA or higher in language arts, math, science, and social studies courses as demonstrated on official transcripts (courses not related to these subject areas will not be considered); or
- Praxis II - Passing scores as established by the State Superintendent on content knowledge exams for certification in Early Childhood or Cross-Categorical Special Education.
When can I start?
Students can begin the 10 Sped Add-On Program on three different dates throughout the year. Please refer to the table below to see the coursework and student teaching timelines for each start date.
| Start Date | Coursework Deadline | Student Teaching Start Date | Student Teaching Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 5 | April 20 | September 5 | November 5 |
| May 5 | August 20 | September 5 | November 5 |
| September 5 | December 20 | January 5 | March 5 |
*For the January start date, student teaching can be arranged to occur within the January semester after the coursework is complete. Please let the Program Administrator know if you'd prefer this option upon application.
How long does the program take?
The program can easily be completed in less than two semesters. Refer to the timeline table above.
Is financial aid available?
The 10 Sped Add-On Program is offered for no graduate credit, therefore, students in this program are not eligible for financial aid.
What are the admissions requirements?
The 10 Sped Add-On Program admissions requirements are:
1. Already have a Tier II or higher special education teaching license.
2. An official transcript that provides evidence that you hold a Bachelor's Degree (BA/BS), Juris Doctor Degree (JD), Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS) from an accredited college: or university or a foreign credential evaluation that verifies the equivalent to a BA/BS in the U.S. The student must request that an official transcript, that includes degree conferred date be sent by the university either through the mail or electronically through their parchment service to Educate Pathways to be admitted to the program.
3. A resume that includes pertinent education and experience.
4. Criminal background check with no conviction or plea bargain for crimes which may impact school children and/or the maintenance of a safe and healthy school. The background check shall be completed no more than 6 months prior to the date of admission and include a review of criminal conduct at the state and federal levels.
Is the program offered for graduate credit?
The 10 Sped Add-On Program is not offered for graduate credit.
What is the cost?
| Enrollment | $500 | *Non-refundable |
| Add-On Course $2,200.00 Assignments must be completed per coursework deadline | $2,200.00 | Assignments must be completed per coursework |
| Student Teaching $3,400.00 Evaluations must be completed per student teaching deadline | $3400.00 | Evaluations must be completed per student teaching |
*Subject to change without notice.
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