PSEL-for-HISD-Academic-Services-Memo

New Master’s Degree Program in Special Education Leadership Do you want to earn a master’s degree in special education leadership and pursue principal certification? Enroll in the University of St Thomas offers a Master of Education in Special Education Leadership, a new degree program offered in collaboration with the Houston Independent School District (HISD) When classes begin? Classes start in fall 2013, to be held in the evenings at a convenient HISD location and online Who can apply? Prime candidates for the program include HISD special education teachers, general education and ancillary teachers, diagnosticians and speech therapists Also, individuals already in leadership positions, such as department chairs, and program specialists are encouraged to apply How much does it cost? Because the new program is part of a federal grant project, the cost for tuition and books will be at no cost or significantly reduced, as determined by each student’s total income and financial need What are the admissions requirements? The University of St Thomas graduate school admission requirements must be met by program applicants Special consideration will be given to candidates who are members of under-represented groups or who have a disability How many students will be accepted? The program’s first cohort group will be 20 students In all, there will be 80 program participants over the five-year life of the project The purpose of the program is to give a boost to special education services resulting in improved student outcomes Where can I learn more about this program? The University of St Thomas will host information sessions on Tuesday, March and Thursday, March at 4:30 pm-6:00 pm at Reagan HS The address is 413 East 13th Street, Houston , TX 77008 For more details, visit the University of St Thomas website, or contact Dr Randy Soffer, Director of the Preparation of Special Education Leaders Program, 713-942-5922 or psel@stthom.edu