Special Education

Diploma   Special Education Endorsement/Certification Academy


A partnership between the Renton School District and Seattle University

WHAT LED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ACADEMY?

In the fall of 2004 the Renton School District realized that there was a significant shortage of qualified teacher applicants with special education certification. This was not unique to Renton, as districts across Washington State and the Nation were also experiencing similar shortages in qualified applicants.

SOLUTION: Establish a teacher training/endorsement program in partnership with a recognized university program.

The District approached three major universities about establishing the Academy program. Pacific Lutheran University was the only one to respond to the District’s request with enthusiasm and willingness to immediately develop and implement a program for the 2004-05 school year. In 2008-2009, Seattle University took over the partnership with the Renton School district.

Implementation of the teacher training/endorsement program allows the District to approach and hire strong general education applicants interested in teaching special education. The District covers all costs connected with participation in the Academy endorsement program. All course work is taught in the District. Participants in the Academy attend classes through out the school year and a week long class during the summer. Participants agree to stay in the district and teach special education for a minimum of five years following completion of their course work and receipt of a special education endorsement, or receive state retooling grants. Seattle University and the Renton School District also offer endorsements in Math and Reading Literacy.

Academy Instructors:

  • District administration works with faculty from Seattle University to design, refine and teach courses within District facilities.
  • District Administrators and staff have become adjunct faculty to assist in course instruction.
    Contact: Rebecca Lockhart, Director of Special Education Services
    425-204-2285