Special Education Administrative Leadership (SEAL) Program
SEAL affords participants opportunities to deepen their knowledge and skills relative to both leadership and special education issues and administration. In addition to traditional coursework, participants receive numerous experiential learning opportunities, including short and long term internships and an action research project addressing an authentic challenge. They also receive follow-up support upon completing the program. SEAL will graduate four successive cohorts totaling approximately 55 participants.
More about the SEAL Program
The SEAL Program increases the capacity of leaders to improve education systems serving children with disabilities.
Administered by CDS, the 18-months-long program offers participants special education coursework, single-day retreats and internships mentored by special education leaders,. As the SEAL Program reflects national standards for both educational leadership and special education administration, the curriculum also includes leadership preparation designed by the UD Delaware Academy for School Leadership (DASL). DASL draws from its Principal Preparation Program, which serves as an alternative route to assistant principal and principal certification in Delaware.
This UDaily article highlights the SEAL Program.
This Zoom call explains SEAL to prospective applicants.
Anticipated outcomes of the SEAL Program include but are not limited to: 1.) an increase in the number of Delaware educators qualified to assume special education leadership roles; 2.) the integration of highly-qualified special education administrators into local education agencies; 3.) positive changes in the quality, consistency and effectiveness of special education services and supports; and 4.) improved student and family outcomes.
For more information about the Special Education Administrative Leadership Program, contact Stephanie Kaznica at skaznica@udel.edu, or read more about the program here.
Eligibility Requirements
- At least five years of experience as an educator in Delaware public schools
- Experience supervising staff who teach special education students OR experience providing direct services to special education students
- Education-related master’s degree
- One (1) of the following:
- An undergraduate degree in a special education related field
- A master’s degree in a special education related field
- Special education related certification in Delaware with five successful years of special education related direct services to students in Delaware public schools
- Transcripts – Minimum of a 3.0 GPA in master’s program
- Application with a writing sample and resume with evidence of leadership in current role
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from your current supervisor and one from a district administrator (or a building administrator if working in a charter school)
- A copy of your most current evaluation
Applicants selected for an interview will meet with the selection committee for discussion and
completion of a performance task.