About the Program and Required Coursework
Project LEAP-IT (Leaders in Education Promoting Academic Achievement and Positive Behavior through Interdisciplinary Training) is a grant funded program supported by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). LEAP-IT prepares participants to become leaders who train special education teachers and school psychologists to improve academic and social outcomes for students with high-intensity needs.
Program Highlights
Graduate students selected for participation in Project LEAP-IT will receive:
- Funding: 30 course credits over two years
- Stipend: $2,500 for books and materials
- Professional Development: Shared coursework, applied experiences, and training
- Outcome: Master’s degree and eligibility for Minnesota special education teaching license
Core Competencies
Training emphasizes the connection between behavioral difficulties and poor academic outcomes through:
- Data-based individualization
- Evidence-based academic and behavioral practices
- Responsible and effective use of AI
- Collaboration and partnerships
Coursework
Project LEAP-IT scholars will need to take the following courses as a group, in additon to meeting other program requirements.
- Year 1, Fall: SPED 657 Advanced Instructional Methods for Learning Disabilities (4 cr)
- In this course, scholars will gain knowledge and skills needed to utilize evidence-based practices with students who have learning and behavioral concerns and a need for intensive support in these areas
- Year 1, Spring: PSYC 720 Academic Problem Solving (4 cr)
- In this course, scholars will learn and apply a data-based approach to problem solving academic problems.
- Year 2, Fall: SPED 590 (1 cr)
- This weekly topical seminar is designed to provide discussion, skill development, and analysis of the components needed to implement academic and behavioral interventions within a problem-solving model and deepen knowledge and ethical implementation of AI.
- Year 2, Spring: SPED 590 (1 cr)
- This seminar course is a continuation of SPED 590 from the previous semester. Scholars will provide supported field-based practices in applying data-based individualization.
Questions?
