Special Ed Program: Quick, Flexible and Full of Experts

Kenny Long MAT '19 chose the Pacific University master of arts in teaching in special education program in part because it was quick and flexible.

More, though, he appreciated the expertise of the faculty.

“The classes were taught by instructors that were either in the field or have been in the field of special education, and not just be researchers,” he said. “They pair you with supervisors that have an immense amount of knowledge for the field, and they find placements that best fit what you are looking to gain out of your time as a student-teacher.”

With the flexible MAT program, Long was able to complete his master’s degree and earn a preliminary teaching license for special education in just a year — all while continuing to work.

Now, he works with young elementary students in special education at Fox Hollow in the Eugene School District 4J.

“Particularly for future SPED teachers, remind yourself that it is okay and totally appropriate to be flexible every day,” he said, offering advice for future teachers. “Some days will not go at all how you envision, plan or hope, but know that that is okay and just ride with the wave and figure out what will work for your plans and students in those moments!”