Merski, Harkins: $50,000 awarded to Gannon University through the Accelerated Special Educator Certification Program
Rep. Robert Merski March 4, 2025 | 12:50 PM
ERIE, March 4 – State Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, announced today that Gannon University has been awarded $50,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Accelerated Special Educator Certification Program.
The Accelerated Special Educator Certification Program aims to address Pennsylvania’s educator workforce shortage by expanding accelerated certification programming for prospective special educators. This initiative helps Pennsylvania schools train more qualified special educators in a shorter timeframe.
“Pennsylvania’s educator workforce shortage demands innovative solutions, and the Accelerated Special Educator Certification Program exemplifies the kind of creativity and flexibility needed to address this critical issue,” Merski said. “We are proud to support Gannon University’s efforts to train more high-quality special educators who will make a meaningful impact in classrooms across the commonwealth.”
Harkins added, “This program is a testament to the power of collaboration and forward-thinking. By investing in the education and training of special educators, we are ensuring that our students receive the support and resources they need to thrive. Gannon University’s commitment to this cause is truly commendable.”
The grant funding will be used to support individuals who hold bachelor’s degrees in gaining special education certification through an 18-month postbaccalaureate program. The program includes summer field experiences, mentoring and coaching by experienced special educators during the school year, and a combination of in-person and virtual options for flexibility and support. Participants will also complete a minimum of 12 weeks of student teaching.
The lawmakers said this initiative aligns with the Shapiro administration’s efforts to recruit and retain teachers in Pennsylvania and ensure a robust pipeline of educators to provide high-quality education to learners of all ages. Other efforts include reducing teacher certification processing times, making intern certificates free for aspiring educators, creating new Career and Technical Education programs in education for high school students, and expanding the Student Teacher Support Program to provide stipends to student teachers.