Strengthening the Michigan Special Education Workforce
Meeting the Growing Demand for Special Education Teachers
The need for qualified special education teachers is rising, and Talent Together Teacher Candidates are stepping up with the confidence, skills, and experience to succeed. Currently, 37.62% of our Teacher Candidates are enrolled in a special education pathway, preparing to fill certified special education teacher vacancies across Michigan.
The Education Policy Innovation Collaborative at Michigan State University is a research center devoted to producing evidence that improves education policy. Their recent 2025 Michigan Teacher Shortage Study highlights the urgent need for certified special education teachers across MI.
Fully staffing districts with qualified special education professionals is essential to closing achievement gaps and ensuring all students receive a fair and equitable education.
A Candidate's Perspective
Taia Cisco, a Talent Together Teacher Candidate and Special Education Teacher Assistant at Calhoun Intermediate School District, is enrolled in the Siena Heights Cognitive Impairment Program and works with students with mild cognitive impairment.
"I’ve gained strategies in behavior management, communication, and individualized education planning. I use task analysis, multi-sensory instruction, positive behavioral support strategies, and augmentative and alternative communication tools to support student success. Strengthening my individualized education program knowledge has enhanced my ability to set goals, track progress, and collaborate effectively.”
The Siena Heights Cognitive Impairment program equips educators to support students with memory, concentration, task completion, following instructions, and problem-solving challenges.
“I’m learning to adapt instruction, support students more effectively, and advocate for students’ needs. This has helped me create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment and will continue to shape how I educate and advocate for students with cognitive impairments in the future.” Shares Taia Cisco
A Strong Foundation in Special Education
Talent Together is partnering with Siena Heights University’s online Special Education Cognitive Impairment Program, perfect for educators already working in a classroom. This collaboration is helping to strengthen the special education workforce.
The program is based on genetic and neurological medical foundations, by Dr. Carrie Mitchell-Hammer and the late Dr. Martha Carroll, trailblazers in cognitive impairment. From day one, educators dive into hands-on field experiences, working with real students in real classrooms.
Special Education teacher candidates utilizing the electronic autopsy table at Siena Heights University
“The asynchronous structure provides flexibility for Teacher Candidates working in K-12 special education settings, allowing them to immediately apply their learning in the classroom. The ripple effect of this model is truly exciting, as it cultivates a new generation of passionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable special educators who are ready to shape the future of special education.”
Be Part of Michigan's Education Transformation
Talent Together is committed to developing the next generation of educators by providing accessible, high-quality pathways to teacher certification. Our tuition-free, job-embedded program, supports aspiring educators to teacher certification.
By joining, partnering, or supporting Talent Together, you become part of a statewide initiative dedicated to strengthening Michigan’s education workforce—helping to fill critical teacher vacancies and ensure that all students receive the support and instruction they deserve.