July 13, 2005, Findlay, Ohio – The University of Findlay will offer a free program for area intervention specialist teachers that will train them in a variety of areas so they can attain the designation of being a “Highly Qualified Teacher (HQT).”

Ohio’s intervention specialists must meet HQT requirements by the end of the school year 2005-06, as mandated in the No Child Left Behind Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act.

In order to meet the HQT requirements, intervention specialist teachers must hold at least a bachelor’s degree, hold full state certification or licensure as an intervention specialist and demonstrate subject matter competence in each area taught for seventh- through 12th- grade intervention specialists.

According to Judith Wahrman, UF associate professor of education and coordinator of the project, beginning this fall, courses in math, science, language arts, reading and social studies will be offered to intervention specialist teachers in the Findlay City Schools and other area schools on a first come basis. The courses previously were offered in April.

Courses will be held at Findlay High School, in the late afternoon, evenings and on Saturdays. Teacher participants may access Professional Development Units (PDU) from The University of Findlay at no charge.

Wahrman is working in conjunction with Kathleen Crates, Findlay City Schools’ director of special education.

The program is being funded by a $40,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Education. It is being directed by the University’s College of Education in collaboration with Findlay City Schools.

For more information or to sign up for the training program, contact Wahrman at 419-434-4864.