This Cross-Categorical Special Education Major seeks to prepare candidates to utilize a variety of theoretical and research-based practices to enable learners with disabilities to reach their full potential. Moreover, candidates gain experience in the varied settings and roles of the special educator, including expanding consulting and collaborative roles in the inclusive classroom. A specific program audit form outlines the required and elective courses within the Four Pillar Framework, allowing for the certification and then the final degree work within the Professional Development Plan (PDP) process.
Certification areas include cross-categorical special education with specific learning disabilities concentration for elementary through secondary levels. Students in this program must have a regular teaching license. If a candidate does not, then they must complete the Transition to Teaching program with Special Education as a dual program. In all cases, a transcript review must be conducted to establish the appropriate credential eligibility. Teacher licensing at WLC follows the Wisconsin State DPI approved program guidelines as described in the Teacher Education Handbook where additional standardized tests and program requirements are identified.
The curriculum focuses on best practice for academic achievement of diverse learners with varying special needs, teacher preparation and experience, practical instructional models, and data-driven decision-making within the context of a Christian world view. Technological applications are integrated throughout the program and specifically, in the required clinical and practicum experiences.
Special Requirements
Graduate students must come to campus for many of the methods courses in face-to-face formats and also have the ability to schedule clinical hours for observation and teaching in a K-12 classroom during the school year. Each methods course has specified hours and expectations assigned. At completion, clinical experiences must represent the range of the licensure program. One practicum is required in each setting for special education: an inclusive classroom and a specialized pull out or focused resource room. The final practicum in this specialty entails a full K-12 semester in a teacher candidacy position approved by the Director of Teacher Education and the Dean.
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