DURHAM, N.H. - The University of New Hampshire is accepting applications for the Preparing Excellent Teachers Project, a federally funded grant program to prepare early childhood special educators.

"The program emphasizes the full participation of all young children through inclusion in natural environments with smooth transitions between early intervention, preschool, and kindergarten," said Leslie Couse, associate professor of education. "The Preparing Excellent Teachers project is a community-university collaboration, involving top-notch professionals and experienced parents who enhance the learning experience for students through mentoring and field experience."

Administered by the UNH Department of Education, the two-year master's program prepares early childhood special education teachers in evidence-based practices for early intervention, preschool, and primary settings. Scholars will gain knowledge, skills, and experiences implementing practices to meet the needs of young children and families through:

• Series of evidence-based practice seminars
• Enhanced field experiences in communities of practice
• Mentoring network that matches scholars with a community mentor

Courses are co-taught by individuals with disabilities and/or family members, and university faculty in education and other departments in collaboration with the Institute on Disability and the Early Education Intervention Network (EEIN) of NH.

Courses are offered after 4 p.m. so enrollment is feasible for practicing professionals and full or part-time students. Graduates are eligible for New Hampshire teacher certification in early childhood special education (birth - 8 years). Tuition assistance is available for qualified students.

For more information, visit http://iod.unh.edu/ECSEcert.html. This program is supported in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs.

The University of New Hampshire, founded in 1866, is a world-class public research university with the feel of a New England liberal arts college. A land, sea, and space-grant university, UNH is the state's flagship public institution, enrolling more than 12,200 undergraduate and 2,200 graduate students.

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