Special Education
Special Education Mission
In keeping with the purpose of teacher education at West Chester University, the prime mission
of the Teacher Education program in Special Education is to prepare teachers who can synthesize
self-knowledge and general knowledge of (a) foundations of the study of disability, (b) the
learner with disabilities, (c) appropriate content for the learner with disabilities, and (d)
effective classroom pedagogy. We believe this synthesis encourages reflection on the art
of teaching and results in a professional who is able to make sound, ethical educational decisions
regarding curriculum and instructional strategies for students with disabilities.
Special Education Outcomes
Curricula, Teaching, and Faculty Philosophies in the Department of Special Education at West Chester University are guided by the Standards of the Council for Exceptional Children in conjunction with the standards of the Pennsylvania State Department of Education. Specific program outcomes can be found here.
The Department of Special Education at West Chester University offers the following programs:
Undergraduate
Majors (Freshman entering Fall 2009 or later)
Initial teacher preparation in the following dual certification areas:
- B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Early Grades Preparation*
- B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Middle Grades Preparation*
- B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Secondary Education (content area)*
Majors (Students completing their program by May 2013)
Initial teacher preparation in the following area
Dual Certifications (through May 2013)
Initial teacher preparation in the following areas
- Special Education & Elementary Education
- Special Education & Early Childhood Education
Minors
For undergraduate students in other majors
Graduate
For further program information contact
Undergraduate Programs: (610) 436-2579 or email Dr. Donna Wandry dwandry@wcupa.edu
Graduate Program Coordinator: Dr. Vicki McGinley vmcginley@wcupa.edu
For student activities information contact
Best Buddies Faculty Advisor: Dr. Donna Wandry dwandry@wcupa.edu
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC):
Faculty Advisors: Dr. Claire Verden cverden@wcupa.edu and Dr. Beatrice Adera badera@wcupa.edu
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*Programs have achieved final approval status from PA Dept of Education
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