The Department of Educational Theory, Policy, and Practice
Division of Integrated Studies
Special Education: A Chance to Make A Difference

Special educators are specially trained professionals that provide instruction and support for students with disabilities. These professionals work in a variety of settings and roles to assure that students with disabilities have access to the promise of public education.

Special education represents one of the fastest growing professions in our country. Better identification and expanded services have created a great local and national need for individuals to become special educators. In Louisiana, almost one in three positions in special education are held by uncertified personnel, offering great potential for post-program employment.

Over five million students are served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Dedicated parents and professionals work together to provide greater opportunities for students with disabilities to attend schools, learn, work, and participate in our communities. The promise of inclusive communities relies on highly trained professionals to continue the work. Be a part of the promise!

• Our graduates are actively recruited for special education positoins in Louisiana and across the country.

• Special educators work closely with teachers and parents to provide indivudualized instruction for students with disabilities.

• Highest need area for most states.

• Undergraduate and Graduate Programs.

• Financial Aid is often available to qualified applicants.

• Special Education qualfies for Stafford Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program for up to $17,500.

In the last several years, Louisiana State University and the College of Education have made a substantial commitment to improving special education programs. In 2002, the Minor in Special Education was approved by the University representing the first opportunity in many years for this undergraduate certification. In 2006, the Louisiana Board of Regents approved for the M.Ed. in Special Education.

Special Education Minor

Graduate Programs in Special Education

Special Education Programs offer several options for advanced training at the graduate level. Programs in special education are available at the masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. Specialty areas include:

• Instructional Support Specialist

• Behavior Support Specialist
  

• Educational Diagnostician
  

Each program contains courses and field experiences designed to prepare individuals to fulfill a variety of leadership roles in schools, universities, and government. All of our programs emphasize the development of professionals that are “child centered” and committed to the application and evaluation of validated instructional practice.

Admission to Graduate Programs

Students desiring admission to graduate level programs should follow the procedures for admission to the LSU Graduate School and contact the Department of Educational Theory, Policy, and Practice for additional admission procedures. Students enrolled in a special education speciality will be assigned a faculty advisor upon acceptance into the program.

Special Education Faculty & Staff

Ken Denny, Ph.D
rdenny@lsu.edu

Margaret Denny, Ph.D
mdenny1@lsu.edu

Kristin Gansle, PhD
kgansle@lsu.edu

Gerlinde Grandstaff-Beckers, PhD
gbecke1@lsu.edu

Kara Hill, M.Ed.
karahill@lsu.edu

Melanie Lemoine, PhD.
mlemoinem@lsu.edu

Paul Mooney, PhD
pmooney@lsu.edu