Two professors from Alabama A&M University have secured significant federal grants to enhance the quality of education for students with disabilities in the state. Dr. Tamar F. Riley and Dr. Adrain Christopher have both received $1.25 million grants from the Office of Special Education Programs to launch innovative initiatives focused on training diverse and qualified special education teachers.
Dr. Tamar F. Riley’s Project PARITY
Dr. Tamar F. Riley, associate professor of special education, will spearhead Project PARITY (Preparing Advanced Responsive Interventionists for Teaching Youth). This initiative, set to unfold over the next five years, is designed to provide scholarships for 30 multilingual teachers of color seeking Class AA certification through the Education Specialist Degree program. The grant aims to produce expert interventionists capable of designing, implementing, and evaluating tier 3 evidence-based interventions that incorporate culturally responsive practices for students with disabilities.
“This grant presents a significant opportunity to improve academic and behavioral outcomes for K-12 students with disabilities through specialized, collaborative training provided by AAMU faculty and field experts,” said Riley. “The funding will not only enhance enrollment in our graduate programs but will also empower school districts across the state with highly effective interventionists who specialize in coaching and mentoring teachers to ensure high-quality instruction for all students.”
Throughout the five-year period, the progress of participating scholars will be tracked to demonstrate the project’s positive impact within the EdS in Special Education program.
Dr. Adrain Christopher’s Project TEACH Like A Bulldog
Meanwhile, Dr. Adrain Christopher, assistant professor of special education, is launching Project TEACH (Training Educators for All Children with Handicaps) Like a Bulldog. This initiative tackles the pressing shortage of special education teachers in Alabama by providing financial assistance for 60 scholars pursuing initial Class B certification in Special Education through either the Bachelor of Science in Education degree or the Temporary Special Education Certificate program.
“Project TEACH Like a Bulldog will fully fund 60 scholars – comprising eight traditional undergraduates and 52 TSEC candidates recommended by the district – covering required coursework along with expenses for books, supplies, mentorship, and professional travel,” explained Christopher. The focus is on recruiting candidates from underrepresented backgrounds, including multilingual individuals and those with disabilities.
Cohort 1 for Project TEACH commenced in Fall 2024, while selection for Cohort 2 is expected to begin in Spring 2025.
