#United States #Risepoint #Southeastern Oklahoma #autism education #Durant

Southeastern Oklahoma State University Expands Special Education Offerings

Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SE) is excited to announce the launch of a new Master of Education concentration in Special Education, primarily focusing on Autism and Developmental Disabilities. This program will welcome its inaugural cohort in January 2026. Developed in collaboration with the education technology firm Risepoint, this concentration aims to empower educators with the essential skills needed to support students who require specialized assistance.

The need for qualified special education teachers is pressing across the United States. According to recent reports, over fifty percent of school districts and eighty percent of states are grappling with significant shortages in this sector for the 2023-2024 academic year. Each year, approximately 46,000 special education teachers exit the public school system, while fewer than 30,000 new ones step into these vital roles. In Oklahoma, the situation is particularly acute, prompting the state to offer signing bonuses of up to $20,000 from 2025 to 2026 to attract and retain certified educators. This new concentration from SE seeks to fill this urgent gap by training teachers to effectively serve students with autism and related developmental challenges, emphasizing both compassion and expertise.

Dr. Kathleen Booth, an Associate Professor and the Special Education Program Area Coordinator at Southeastern, commented on the initiative, saying, "This program highlights Southeastern's commitment to equipping educators for the demands of contemporary classrooms. By honing in on autism and developmental disabilities, we aim to empower our teachers with the necessary knowledge to nurture learners who need additional support, while also aiding their own professional advancement."

The curriculum is designed to provide practical strategies and applicable tools that educators can employ immediately in their classrooms. Through this new offering, Southeastern Oklahoma State University broadens its special education programs and provides educators with greater flexibility for professional growth.

Fernando Bleichmar, the CEO of Risepoint, expressed confidence in the program’s mission, stating, "Southeastern Oklahoma State University has a storied history of preparing effective educators. This new concentration builds upon that legacy by supplying teachers with the advanced skills that schools urgently require. We’re proud to support Southeastern in making this program more accessible to working adults through our ongoing partnership."

For those interested in the Master of Education in Special Education with a focus on Autism and Developmental Disabilities at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, applications are now open. Interested parties can find more information and apply via their website: SE Online.

Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University is dedicated to student success, affordability, and community engagement. With over 45 undergraduate and graduate programs, the university has a robust commitment to regional impact and career readiness, underscoring its dedication to meeting the educational needs of its students.

Risepoint, the partner in developing this program, is committed to providing world-class educational technology solutions to enhance learning opportunities at over 100 universities nationwide. By focusing on affordability and access, they strive to help more students, especially working adults, improve their careers within critical fields like teaching, healthcare, and public service. To learn about more from Risepoint, visit Risepoint.