Preparing Pre-Service Educators Through Evidence-Based Practices
CIEES partnered with the Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports (VTSS) to create a dedicated learning management site that integrates evidence-based classroom practices into the licensure coursework of future special educators—addressing shortages and improving retention from the start.
Challenge 1
Special education shortages statewide
Challenge 2
Limited applied training for pre-service teachers
Challenge 3
Early-career stress and burnout risk
Our Solution
CIEES partnered with VTSS to design and manage development of a dedicated learning management site, providing instructional design expertise to ensure evidence-based classroom practices were effectively integrated into ODU’s special education program. The site integrates:
- Developed instructional content for 10+ modules covering critical topics: mental health in schools, trauma, chronic absenteeism, restraint and seclusion, defusing disruptive behavior, and refining intervention toolkits
- Embedded objectives and instructional content across SPED licensure courses, including:
- Classroom & Behavior Management
- Instructional Design
- Instructional Strategies
- Supervised Field Experiences & Student Teaching
- Ensured access to structured, trackable learning via LMS integration, with quarterly reporting to project stakeholders
This initiative ensures that new special educators enter the field with the tools, mindset, and practical knowledge to persist—and thrive.
View Project722 pre-service educators accessed evidence-based modules during preparation
35 practical modules integrated into SPED licensure pathway
Quarterly usage reports delivered to stakeholders drive continuous improvement
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