Minnesota special education program hands out $10 million in grants

(The Center Square) – Minnesota’s Department of Education awarded $10 million in education grants to support and train special education teachers in more than 35 public school districts, charter schools and co-ops.

“As a former classroom teacher for over 20 years, I understand the impact a dedicated teacher can have on their students’ lives,” Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said Wednesday. “By investing in our special education workforce, we can help ensure every student in Minnesota receives the support they need to thrive in their education.”

The MDE has funding available under the Special Education Teacher Pipeline Program, which provides stipends, scholarships, field placement experiences, and other programming to help candidates get licensed as special education teachers.

“We are committed to building an education system that gives every child in Minnesota a world-class education,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “By helping more Minnesotans enter the special education workforce, we can build school environments that meet the unique needs of each student.”

The SPED grant program was established in 2023, when the state made headlines for passing a $2.2 billion K-12 education bill, including $30 million to establish the program. The MDE awarded the first $20 million in funding to 25 grantees in March.

“Students in special education deserve great teachers, and this grant will help prepare teachers with the skills they need,” MDE Commissioner Willie Jett said. “We are working to create the best education workforce in the nation, and special education teachers are an important part of making sure every student in Minnesota receives a quality education.”