The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997 (which amended the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, P.L. 94-142) mandates a free appropriate public education for all children and youth with disabilities. The Act increased the need in Kentucky for qualified special education teachers. The Division of Exceptional Children Services (DECS) is addressing this need by allocating federal inservice funds to assist certified regular education teachers in obtaining certification in an area of special education. The program is also designed to assist special education teachers in obtaining special education certification in an area not previously completed.

Traineeship Program funds are available to help defray part of the tuition costs at state institutions. These include the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Morehead State University, Eastern Kentucky University, Kentucky State University, Murray State University, Western Kentucky University and Northern Kentucky University. Eight private institutions participate including Georgetown College, University of the Cumberlands, Campbellsville University, Bellarmine University, Spalding University, Asbury College, Brescia University and Union College.

Spring 2008 grades due June 1, 2008

Important Deadline Dates
Applications (Part A for continuing students) must be postmarked on or before the following deadlines for each semester:
Fall Semester: July 1
Spring Semester: November 1
Summer Semester: April 1

Grade submission is required for each course funded by the Traineeship Program.
Deadline for Grade Submission:
January 10 for courses completed during the fall semester;
June 1 for courses completed during the spring semester; and
September 1 for courses completed during the summer semester.

Contact Information: Laura Thomson Traineeship Program Northern Kentucky University 245 Johns Hill Road Highland Heights, KY 41099 traineeship@nku.edu 859-442-3506 pn 859-442-3529 fax