Superintendent Arntzen Prioritizes Filling Special Education Teacher Positions

• September 20 2021

HELENA, MT—State Superintendent Elsie Arntzen continues to aggressively support schools across Montana in filling special education teaching positions under the Special Education Endorsement Project. The Project began in 1987 to help Montana school districts experiencing a shortage of special education teachers.  Under Superintendent Arntzen’s leadership in the last four years, the Project has successfully accepted 66 candidates.

“Special education teachers serve 12.6% of all Montana students. The needs of our special education students are supported through this innovative project ” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen.  “I want to celebrate each dedicated teacher candidate who participates in the Special Education Endorsement Project,” Arntzen added.

Montana’s Special Education Endorsement Project aids teacher recruitment and retention efforts by helping teachers receive their special education endorsement. Tuition up to $3,600 per year is provided by the Montana Office of Public Instruction, to support teachers as they seek their special education endorsement. Each teacher must receive their special education endorsement within three years. The project works with Montana schools to pair each teacher with a mentor to provide additional training and support. Each mentor is also provided a stipend for their assistance.

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