Fellowships Available For American Indian Special Education Teacher Training Program

February 2001

University Park, Pa. -- Penn State is offering graduate fellowships to American Indian and Alaska Native students interested in master's level training in special education.

The program is affiliated with Penn State's recognized American Indian Leadership Program. The fellowships are supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

The purpose of the program is to prepare American Indian/Alaska Natives to provide direct services to American Indian students with disabilities and work with classroom teachers serving these students in the mainstream. Related credits outside of the special education program will be taken in educational administration.

Special features of the program include extensive practicum with children with educational administration; classes and readings on AI education; and guest lecturers.

Participants who complete the program will receive a M.Ed. in special education. Program graduates will be qualified to teach American Indian students with disabilities, provide assistance to other professionals in the field and administer model programs.

Applications are now being accepted. The deadline for submitting applications is May 1 for Fall Semester 2001 and November 1 for Spring Semester 2002. The fellowship includes a monthly stipend of approximately $1000 per month, tuition, textbooks and relocation allowances.

Dr. Anna Gajar, professor of special education, and Dr. John Tippeconnic III, professor of education are co-directors of the program. For more information contact Dr. Gajar, Penn State 224 CEDAR Building, University Park, PA 16802-3109; or (814) 863-2284; or Dr. Tippeconnic, American Indian Leadership program, 207 Rackley Building, University park, PA 16802 or (814) 863-1626.

Note: Participants will be obligated to provide special education and related services to children with disabilities for a period of 2 years for every year of graduate funding.

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