RECRUITMENT & RETENTION INFO: New ASU Grant Focused on Special Education Leadership Preparation

Special Education Directors,

Please see the following information from ASU regarding a new grant focused on special education leadership preparation: Leadership in Equity and Diversity for Special-Education-Administrators (LEADS). It provides tuition, travel support, and a substantial annual stipend for EdD students. ASU is currently recruiting for Summer 2022 enrollment. More information is below and attached. Please feel free to share with your staff and relevant listserv.

Leadership for Equity And Diversity in Special-Education-Administrators (LEADS) 

Arizona State University (ASU), in collaboration with Northern Arizona University (NAU), has recently been awarded a U.S. Department of Education grant to prepare leaders in special education who are committed to inclusionary practices for diverse students through four-year doctoral study (EdD). The start date of the program will be in May 2022. LEADS involves core courses, special education leadership coursework, practicum during the summer, and an action research/dissertation. With courses offered in a flexible format both online and on weekends, participants will be able to maintain their current employment. They will conduct an action research dissertation related to a significant problem of practice in their area of employment.

The grant will cover participant costs with full tuition, a stipend, materials, and travel. Additional financial support is available for conference participation, books, and research-related computer software. The grant has a stipulation that requires students to sign a service agreement.

Scholars will have the opportunity to work with expert researchers and special education leaders and their peers at both universities; receive travel funding to present joint projects at research forums and policy events; access focused seminars, apprenticeships, and mentored internships; and engage in professional development activities.

Admission requirements include:

• License in special education or related field
• Employment providing services to individuals with disabilities PK–12
• OSEP service obligation
• Admission to ASU Graduate School
• Admission to MLFTC Leadership and Innovation Program
• Admission to the LEADS program

The pre-application deadline is January 31, 2022. For specific questions or to obtain more information, please see the LEADS web page or contact:

Kevin Laack

Director of Recruitment, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College

Arizona State University

[email protected]

602-543-3434