Skip To Main Content

Welcome to the SpEd Teacher Pathway Program

The FY27 Special Education Teacher Pathway Application for Fall 2026 is open for eligible candidates.

To be considered for participation in the FY27 Special Education Teacher Pathway Program, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Employment with a Joint Applicant (School District Partner)
  2. Current Employment Role for the 2026-27 School Year
    Applicants must be one of the following:
    • Tier 1 or Tier 2 teacher working as a special education teacher
    • Tier 3 or Tier 4 teacher working on an OFP as a special education teacher 
  3. Commitment to Special Education
    • Applicants must demonstrate a strong willingness to become a Special Education teacher in their district upon completing the program.

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 Minnesota.

*Meeting initial eligibility requirements does NOT guarantee acceptance or continued acceptance in the program. 

Please visit the FY27 SPED Teacher Pathway Program to find out more information and learn how to apply to the program.

Welcome to the SpEd Teacher Pathway Program

The Special Education Teacher Pathway Program, offered through SWWC and funded by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), is designed to support educators as they work toward obtaining a special education teaching license. Through financial assistance, guidance, and ongoing support, the program helps address the growing need for qualified special education teachers across southwest and west central Minnesota.

Whether you are a current participant, a newly accepted candidate, or exploring future opportunities with the program, we are excited to support you on your licensure journey.

Thank you for your commitment to serving students with disabilities and strengthening special education services in our schools. We look forward to partnering with you as you work toward becoming a fully licensed special education teacher.

Meet the Program Graduates

Current FY24 Participants

Current participants can access program resources, funding information, forms, deadlines, and updates by clicking the button below.

FY24 SpEd Teacher Pathway Program

FY27 Applicants/Candidates

Individuals interested in applying to the FY27 SPED Teacher Pathway, as well as candidates accepted for Fall 2026, can access application materials, program requirements, important dates, and next steps by clicking the button below.

FY27 SpEd Teacher Pathway Program

SpEd Pathway Team