Project rise: research-informed interdisciplinary scholar preparation in evidence-based practices

Elmhurst University received a $380,989 Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) under the Special Education - Personnel Development to Improve Services and Results for Children with Disabilities program (CFDA 84.325) effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. PROJECT RISE aims to develop and deliver research-based training and professional development to prepare special education personnel and related services providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve children with disabilities effectively. The project emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to scholar preparation grounded in evidence-based practices, aligning with the federal program's core objective of addressing state-identified personnel shortages in special education and related services.

This award represents a standard personnel preparation grant within the 84.325 program portfolio, which supports higher education institutions in training fully certified special education teachers, early intervention personnel, and related services professionals. The funding enables Elmhurst University to implement competitive, research-informed curriculum and professional development activities designed to enhance the qualifications and capabilities of practitioners serving children with disabilities in educational settings.