Lasell Awarded U.S. Department of Education Grant to Train Educators Supporting Students with Intensive Needs

Lasell University has been awarded a five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs to prepare educators to better support students with intensive learning needs through evidence-based teaching practices. The nearly $1 million grant will fund a new collaborative initiative between Lasell University and UMass Lowell designed to strengthen teacher preparation in special education and applied behavior analysis. 

Beginning in January, Lasell and UMass Lowell will launch their first cohort of graduate students under the grant. The graduate scholarship opportunity will fully fund 32 scholars over five years—16 at each institution—to earn advanced degrees and professional licensure in their respective areas. 

Lasell’s program will prepare teachers to support students with moderate disabilities through its Master of Education program. UMass Lowell will focus on autism and applied behavior analysis, offering a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies. Each university will host joint coursework, with Lasell students completing three classes at UMass Lowell and vice versa, and one seminar course taught collaboratively by faculty at both institutions. Each scholar will receive full tuition support, along with stipends for books, materials, and professional development opportunities to attend a conference of their choosing. 

“Preparing teachers to meet the needs of all learners—particularly those with intensive and complex needs—requires both deep expertise and collaboration across institutions,” said Elizabeth Hartmann, Professor of Education and Chair of Lasell’s Graduate Education Program. “This partnership with UMass Lowell allows our students to learn alongside colleagues who approach special education from different perspectives – which we value immensely. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive future for all students.” 

Lasell’s portion of the grant totals $602,923 and will support four cohorts of full-time students over the next five years who will be ready to make an immediate impact in schools across the region through inclusive education strategies.