The SpedUP program is accepting applications for a Fall 2025 cohort. The online application will open January 1st, 2025 with a priority deadline of March 1st, 2025. All candidates are required to submit an application and provide one professional reference to be considered for an interview.
Recent research suggests that the inclusion of teachers of color in both general and special education classrooms improves outcomes for all students with disabilities regardless of race. Over a fourth (27% or nearly 3,000) of Minnesota teachers working with students with disabilities lack any kind of special education credential, and around 1,500 teachers with special education credentials are mismatched to general education classrooms. And special education positions comprise nearly half of all unfilled K-12 teaching jobs in the state.
SpedUP confronts these gaps in K-12 classrooms by increasing the number of teachers and addressing disparities in the composition of the special education workforce. Normandale does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national origin, and all are welcome to apply.
SpedUP provides:
Student commitment to SpedUP includes:
“We are elevating teachers of color who are passionate about teaching students with disabilities. SpedUP plays an important role in diversifying the next generation of special education teachers in Minnesota.” -Kenny Chan, SpedUP Program Coordinator
Kenny Chan is the program coordinator for Normandale’s SpedUP program, which is designed to recruit and support BIPOC students as they pursue the first two years of a special education degree.
He has over 15 years of experience in the field of Special Education. Chan was previously the Director of Special Education at Yinghua Academy in Minneapolis, where he also previously served as Special Education Coordinator and Special Education Teacher. He also taught Special Education at Emmet D. Williams Elementary School in Roseville, Minn.
Chan is very familiar with Normandale’s Education program having graduated with an associate degree from Normandale in education before receiving his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Teaching from Minnesota State University, Mankato through Normandale’s on-campus partnership program.
“We are excited about the SpedUP program as we elevate teachers of color who are passionate about teaching students with disabilities,” said Chan. “This program plays an important role in diversifying the next generation of special education teachers in Minnesota.”
Chan is excited for future special education teachers as they enter a rewarding career field. “I believe a career in special education is very rewarding,” said Chan. “To have the opportunity to teach students year to year and see their progress is incredibly satisfying. Teachers are essential and will always be in demand. SpedUP creates a great foundation for students to begin in the field of education and I am excited to be part of this journey.”
The SpedUP program is accepting applications for a Fall 2025 cohort. The online application opened on January 1st, 2025 with a priority deadline of March 1st, 2025. All candidates are required to submit an application and provide one professional reference to be considered for an interview.
SpedUP students take courses that meet the requirements of the Special Education Foundations Transfer Pathway. Students will work with their academic advisor to register and make sure the courses will ensure transfer into their bachelor's program.
Normandale offers a variety of course delivery methods. SpedUP students can take courses that work best in their schedule.
To be part of the SpedUP program, students need to take a minimum of 9 credits a semester (fall and spring).
"Being part of the SpedUP Program comes with so many benefits. You have a good amount of people in your cohort that once you get to know you develop an amazing support system. Then to top it all off you get the good feelings that come with knowing you're working towards one of the most rewarding careers out there!"
"I choose SpedUp because I want to become a special education teacher. And this program is a great starting point. I want to help students develop their highest potential."
"Enrolling in the SpedUp Program was not only based on the academic benefits but also the cohort comradery and developing skills that will help in my career. This program has enhanced my already positive experience and motivation here at Normandale Community College."
"I have been a paraeducator for 10 years and becoming a special education teacher is a direct pathway. Being part of SpedUP is important because it is giving me an opportunity to get my degree in the field that I am so passionate about and allows women who look like me the chance to eliminate some of the barriers we may face."
"Being part of a cohort in the SpedUP program has been transformative, helping to remove barriers, make college possible, boost self-belief, and serve as a powerful example for both my own children and the students I work with. It highlights the importance of a supportive community in achieving educational and personal goals."
Brea was recently recognized by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) for her dedication and commitment to helping students achieve academic success
"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to be part of a teaching community. I would like to work with elementary age students to support their success in education. My favorite part of my job is seeing the smile on the students' faces and learning about their needs."
"My goal is to earn my special education teaching license. SpedUP has helped and supported me with advising, directing, and scholarships to support my dream."
"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program for the extra support and resources I needed to succeed in my career. It has helped me grow and given me experiences. My goal is to be able to make an impact on students' lives."
"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to fulfill my goal in becoming a special education teacher and to begin networking. I receive support in registering for the correct classes."
"The importance of being a part of SpedUP is bigger than me. I have the opportunity to inspire youth to go to college! Also, as I witness and learn more in-depth about the disparities among students of color in schools and the importance of teachers of color, I get to walk in my purpose and show students of color that they have the opportunity to contribute to changing the future of classrooms and education."
"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program because I love kids and enjoy helping them. Being part of a cohort makes my goal achievable and I can implement my studies into real life practice."
"I want to get my special education teaching license and SpedUP offers the support I need to succeed. The SpedUP cohort is made up of a diverse group of people, which makes you feel inclusive. My favorite part of my job is seeing students develop each day."
"The SpedUP program is important because of the cohort model. It has made such a difference in my college journey. I want to be a high school special education teacher and eventually become a special education coordinator. My favorite part of my job is connecting with my students."
"As a para educator in early childhood education, I enjoy watching the youngest learners in my community grow academically, emotionally, and socially. Being part of a cohort is important because I can partner with peers when I am facing challenges to share feedback to help each other succeed."
"I chose SpedUP to further my education and help students make it through life challenges despite having disabilities. As a para educator, my favorite part of my job is not knowing what the day may bring."
"Throughout my experience working with children, I discovered that I enjoy challenging myself, teaching, learning, and helping others. The SpedUP program helps me to pursue who I want to become in the future and work with experienced educators who are always there to guide us. Being part of a cohort with other future educators and experts in the field is a great opportunity."
"My experience in SpedUP has allowed me, a man of color an opportunity to get a degree in the field of education to match the experience I already have."
"I enrolled in the SpedUP program because I enjoy working with kids and learning from them. Being part of SpedUP gives me the chance to further my education. My career goal is to be in the classroom to teachkindergarten students and help implement IEPs."
“I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to bring culture and identity into special education. Representation matters.
My career goal is to be a center-based teacher for students with autism. I would also love to visit different reservations and help with students with special needs. I am a mother of four, I love spending time with my kids, going to zoos, museums, parks, and grilling! I love attending powwows and round dances.”
“It is important to be part of the SpedUP program to network and make lifelong friends with people that share the same interests. My career goal is to become a licensed autism spectrum disorder special education teacher. I enjoy working with my students and creating individualized schedules to accommodate their needs.”
“I enrolled in the program because I want to inspire my future students and show my children that no matter how old you are it is never too late to invest in your education. But most importantly, I chose this program because I want to make a difference in the Special Education field. I want to show the Latino community that you can become a teacher, doctor, nurse etc. I want to be able to show my future students that no matter what color your skin or your cultural background, you can achieve your goals. I love to read books, going on hikes, kayaking, trying new restaurants, checking out new parks with my kids, spending time with my family, going on walks with my dog.”
“I am passionate about helping students receiving special education services. I have a dream and want to make a difference in the world.”
“Participation in the SpedUP Program can open doors for future career opportunities, helping me advance in the field of special education. I currently work as a paraprofessional, my favorite part is connecting with students and supporting teachers. Being part of a cohort provides a built-in support system. You can share experiences, challenges, and successes with peers who understand what you are going through, which makes the journey less isolating and more encouraging.”
“It is important to be part of SpedUP because of the helpful resources given to help reach your goals. I get to meet new people and make new connections. I want to become a Special Education Teacher working with high school students and transition. I am currently working as a paraprofessional, my favorite part about the job is building relationships and helping students make progress.”
“I chose to be in SpedUP because it allows me to show students there are people who look like them and care about their education and success. Being part of a cohort has helped me connect better with people who work in special education and share the same goals. I enjoy reading, painting, and cooking meals for my family.”
“As a Special Education Paraeducator for 10 years, working with students is the favorite part of my job. Joining the SpedUP Program is important for my personal growth, community participation, and skill improvement. The program's special curriculum focuses on both school learning and personal development stood out to me right away. Joining the SpedUP Program will give me the knowledge and skills I need for my career, as well as a lasting passion for learning. Participants get personalized help and advice to meet their specific needs, which helps students grow academically and personally. Furthermore, the SpedUP Program promotes teamwork among members, fostering a feeling of unity and friendship. As a Special Education Teacher, I want to create classrooms where all students feel included and supported. I want to speak up for students with special needs in order to receive quality education. I want to work with families, communities, and other teachers to create education plans to highlight students’ strengths and talents.”
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