The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education’s (COE) BEd in Special Education (SPED) program, which began in fall 2022, will see its first cohort of 11 students graduate this May. A statewide undergraduate program, the BEd in SPED is designed for aspiring teachers across all Hawaiian Islands. Upon successful completion of the two-year program as the final two years of a bachelor’s degree, teacher candidates graduate with a bachelor’s degree as well as a teaching license, so they can start teaching right away.
“This program serves a dire need in Hawaiʻi due to the special education teacher shortage, especially on the neighbor islands,” said Assistant Professor Jerae Kelly, who serves as the BEd in SPED program coordinator. “The Hawaiʻi Department of Education recognizes this need and offers multiple incentives to interested applicants by subsidizing program costs for up to 60 credits worth of resident tuition rate costs. This can equate to almost their entire program costs.”
Hear from some of the graduates on their experiences in the program:
Why do you think it is important for the COE to have this program?
Check out more stories of our UH spring graduates
“I believe it is important because it gives opportunities to people who may be interested in obtaining a bachelor’s degree in two years. Special Education is a need at schools, so having this program will allow the people of Hawaiʻi to stay in the state while attending this program.” — Lori Nitta (Kauaʻi)
What have you learned while in the program? Why was it a beneficial experience?
“My time in this program has provided me with everything necessary for building a firm foundation in education, from teaching strategies to evidence-based practices for behaviors to varying perspectives. This process paved the way for personal and professional growth as I was provided with the tools for success while being supported by instructors and peers with varying strengths and wisdom to share.” — Ty Yamamoto (Oʻahu)
What are your future plans for after graduation?
“I plan to stay at my sponsor school and be one of their special educators. The best part about my fieldwork was having opportunities to learn from others and share my ideas as well. The teachers that I’ve met here are really helpful and supportive.” — Shelbi Nakano (Hawaiʻi Island)
For the entire story, visit the College of Education website.
