Broaden Your Skills

Special Education/IECE Certification

Traineeship Program funds are available to help defray part of the tuition costs for courses that lead to teacher certification in special education or early childhood education. Currently approved programs include the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Morehead State University, Eastern Kentucky University, Kentucky State University, Murray State University, Western Kentucky University, Northern Kentucky University, Georgetown College, University of the Cumberlands, Bellarmine University, Spalding University, Asbury College, Brescia University, Campbellsville University and Union College.

The Spring 2025 application process is now closed. The deadline for Spring 2025 applications was November 1, 2024. The Traineeship Program will NOT be accepting late applications. Fall 2024 grades are due January 15, 2025. The Summer 2025 application process will open March 1, 2025 and close April 1, 2025. Check the website for dates and requirements.

Eligibility

Applicant must be a full time employee in a Kentucky school in an IECE/Special Education position for which they do not possess the correct certificate. Applicant must be enrolled in a participating university pursuing certification in the area for which you are teaching. Applicant must have a temporary/provisional certificate, or be able to provide approved documentation that the certificate is in process.

 Applications

Our new application process is now on-line and requires you to setup an account. Please read all information on our website to fully understand the new application process and requirements. You must apply separately for each semester, observing all deadlines and documentation requirements.

Recipient Responsibilities

Your responsibilities as a grant applicant and grant recipient are now specifically explained on the Requirements/Application Process page.  Please read thoroughly prior to beginning your online application.  Failure to follow the requirements will result in the denial of your application.

Tuition Payment

Applicants may be funded for up to 30 credit hours toward certification,  not your Master’s degree. (Some exceptions may apply.) Tuition is paid directly to the University typically after the add/drop period is complete. Universities are notified of your classes/credit hours to be funded prior to the start of each semester to ensure that you will not be billed for them. University fees and other additional university expenses cannot be covered by this grant. The number of classes funded for each applicant is determined by our semester budget and the number of applicants.

Book/School Supply Stipend

During some semesters, the Traineeship is able to offer stipends to pay for textbooks and other school supplies such as hi-liters, notebooks, etc.  You will be notified in your approval letter if this stipend is available, along with stipend amounts and procedures. This stipend is paid directly to your university bookstore.