By ensuring participants meet these requirements, the grant program supports individuals who are well-positioned to complete the program successfully and contribute meaningfully to addressing the need for licensed Special Education teachers in Southwest Minnesota. *Meeting initial eligibility requirements does NOT guarantee acceptance or continued acceptance in the program. 

• 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.

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

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.

• Resume
• A written letter of support from your Director of Special Education, Superintendent OR Building Level Administrator (click here to see example letters of support)

1. Apply to a TPP-Approved Partner
• Choose and apply to a Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) partner.
• Complete the FERPA form to allow SWWC to communicate with the TPP about your progress.
2. Financial Aid Preparation
• Submit your FAFSA for the current academic year.
• Be ready to accept grants, scholarships, and possibly loans if needed beyond the Teacher Pathway Scholarship.
3. Academic & Financial Planning
• Meet with your TPP advisor to:
• Create your program plan.
• Register for licensure courses.
• Coordinate with the financial aid office to determine your total funding (grants, scholarships, loans).
4. Program Success Coaching
• Connect with your Program Success Coach to:
• Review your funding sources.
• Finalize your course plan.
• Schedule regular check-ins throughout the year.
5. Tuition & Fees Request
• Submit the Tuition and Fees Request Form at least 4 weeks before your classes begin.
• Note: Full tuition and fees are not guaranteed—you are encouraged to secure additional funding.
6. Funding Disbursement
• If approved, SWWC sends scholarship funds directly to your TPP partner.
• You are responsible for any remaining costs (tuition, books, fees, etc.).
7. Course Completion & Reporting
• Complete your courses through the accredited TPP partner.
• Submit proof of course completion (grade report with at least a 2.5 GPA) to SWWC each semester to remain eligible for future funding.

• Funding is not guaranteed for the entire licensure program.
• You must reapply for scholarship awards each semester.
• Continued eligibility depends on:
• Your licensure needs for your current SpEd teaching role.
• Meeting program requirements.
• Availability of grant funds.
• All funding decisions are made by SWWC and are subject to change at any time for any reason.