Learning From Graduate Training in Related Fields: A Model Online School Psychology Program

Since the enactment of Public Law 94-142, school districts have struggled to hire and retain required special education personnel (i.e., special education teachers, school psychologists, and related service providers). Data show that shortages of these qualified personnel are even more magnified in rural school districts. Distance education can provide an opportunity for candidates in rural areas to pursue educational training and certification while remaining in their communities. We summarize evidence-based components for online programs and describe an online program designed to respecialize candidates as school psychologists through comprehensive online training. We recommend a similar online model for training candidates to be special education teachers in rural and remote locations and provide guidance for programs to develop effective online programs