Repp (rural educator preparation and performance): a pathway for special education personnel in high-need communities

REPP (Rural Educator Preparation and Performance): A Pathway for Special Education Personnel in High-Need Communities

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) received a $321,520 Project Grant award effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, from the 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). This award supports the development and delivery of a personnel preparation initiative designed to address identified shortages of qualified special education teachers and related services providers in rural, high-need communities. The REPP program is structured to provide research-based training and professional development that equips educators with the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary to serve students with disabilities effectively in underserved areas.

As an 1890 land-grant historically Black college or university, UMES leverages this award to advance its institutional mission of preparing undergraduate and graduate students, particularly from underrepresented populations, for careers in special education. The program aligns with OSERS's statutory requirement to support competitive grants that develop fully qualified personnel in special education and related services, with particular emphasis on meeting workforce needs in rural settings where educator shortages are most acute. Award renewal for up to five years is possible subject to demonstrated progress and continued appropriations availability.