Including Special Education Teachers
Michigan’s #T.E.A.C.H. program (Training Educators And Creating Hope) is a Michigan Department of Education–approved alternative pathway to teacher certification. Moreover, its mission is to remove barriers for aspiring and current educators, offer flexible training, and meet Michigan’s demand for qualified teachers. Notably, this includes Special Education Teachers.
Because of the program’s flexibility, certification becomes more accessible to career changers, paraprofessionals, and others balancing work, family, and education.
By blending theory, practice, and mentorship, the program ensures that graduates are not just certified but classroom-ready.
The #T.E.A.C.H. program offers a flexible pathway to teacher certification in Michigan. It is designed for:
- Individuals seeking initial teacher certification.
- Educators are adding additional endorsements to their teaching license.
- Degree completion candidates.
- Those pursuing a Master’s degree in partnership with the University of Olivet.
Through the program, participants gain access to fully online coursework (blended for methods classes), flexible scheduling with self-paced learning, as well as direct classroom experience through a residency model.
During the residency, each candidate works with a Cooperating Teacher, an Instructional Coach, and a Director of Instruction, ensuring hands-on mentoring and real-world application of skills.
Special Education Focus Option
#T.E.A.C.H. provides a strong pathway to teacher certification for individuals pursuing Special Education credentials. Specifically, the program’s Special Education coursework—equivalent to 33 college credits—covers:
- Individualized Education Program (IEP) development.
- Assistive technology in the classroom.
- Behavior intervention and restorative practices.
- Transition planning for students moving from school to post-secondary opportunities.
Together, these courses prepare candidates to serve students with a variety of disabilities, from cognitive and emotional impairments to autism spectrum disorders.
Timeline and Structure
Participants have 13 months to complete the program. While the coursework is self-paced, it includes checkpoints to keep candidates on track. Because the program blends online modules with live, practical teaching experience, candidates graduate ready to manage classrooms confidently and effectively.
Funding and Financial Support
#T.E.A.C.H. removes the financial barrier to teacher training by offering:
- In-house payment plans.
- Pay Your Way options, allowing candidates to set their own monthly amount.
- Third-party financing partnerships.
Access to workforce development funding through Michigan Works, WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act), and the Trade Adjustment Act.
How to Get Started
Interested individuals can explore program details, review course outlines, and begin the application process directly at TrainingEducators-MI.com. With multiple start dates and flexible learning, candidates can enter the classroom sooner while building the skills to make a lasting difference in Michigan schools.
