PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Jan. 14, 2026) — Prairie View A&M University is preparing educators to support Texas’ youngest learners. The initiative focuses on training teachers to serve infants and young children with high-intensity needs.
Beverly Sande, PhD
The effort is led by Dr. Beverly Sande, associate professor in the Whitlowe R. Green College of Education, through Project SpEED-EI (Special Education Enhanced Degree–Early Interventions). The five-year project addresses the statewide shortage of qualified special education teachers, particularly in underserved communities, and is supported by $1.2 million from the U.S. Department of Education.
Dr. Sande is joined by PVAMU’s Dr. Charlotte Fontenot and Chris Bryan, who serve as co-principal investigators.
Project SpEED-EI is built on an evidence-based model that includes:
- Recruiting paraprofessionals and career changers through “Grow Your Own” programs in high-need school districts
- Developing a curriculum designed to prepare educators to support children requiring early intervention services
- Offering a yearlong residency program to ensure graduates are classroom-ready
- Establishing professional learning communities and induction programs to provide ongoing mentorship for new teachers
The project includes partnerships with Hempstead ISD, Houston ISD, Fort Bend ISD, Royal ISD, and Maxwell House of Abilities. These collaborations will help prepare educators to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
This initiative strengthens PVAMU’s work within the College of Education by expanding training and research opportunities, deepening collaboration with school districts, and supporting sustainable pathways for preparing special education professionals across Texas. By investing in the development of special education professionals, PVAMU reinforces its mission to transform communities through innovation, service, and leadership, demonstrating that Excellence Lives Here in every classroom and every child’s potential.
This story by Joe McGinty, with contributions from Dr. Beverly Sande, originally appeared on pvamu.edu/research.
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