Detroit needs more special education teachers. MSU partnership aims to help.

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) and Michigan State University (MSU) have partnered to address the shortage of special education teachers, particularly those certified in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The initiative allows DPSCD teachers to pursue MSU's online master's degree in special education with an ASD credential or endorsement, with the district covering the program's tuition.

Currently, 22 teachers are enrolled in the fall cohort, with the hope of completing their degrees within three years and remaining employed in DPSCD for six years.

The partnership comes as DPSCD has seen a significant increase in the number of students diagnosed with autism, from 1,035 in the 2019-20 school year to 1,957 this school year. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti expressed concern over the statewide teacher shortage, noting that schools are often forced to rely on educators with temporary or interim credentials, especially in special education.

He emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it provides a pathway for teachers to obtain the necessary certification and stay within the Detroit school system.

The online master's degree requires 30-36 credits, with six courses focusing on evidence-based practices for supporting students with autism, including communication, social supports, and strategies for addressing individual learning needs. Tuition for the participating cohort amounts to $200,000, which is being funded through DPSCD's general fund.

This initiative aims to grow a pipeline of certified special education teachers, particularly those with ASD endorsements, within the district, and could serve as a model for other districts and universities across Michigan.