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TOPSET Overview – Transition of Paraeducators to Special Education Teachers  

The TOPSET project supports 22 paraprofessionals who are becoming special education teachers. The goal is to transition paraeducators from their current positions to special education teachers serving students with high incidence needs. A full range of supports is offered to participants to assure their ability to reach the goal. By the end of the project, participants earn a baccalaureate degree and a Special Education Generalist license. A mentor teacher program builds the capacity of districts to induct new teachers. Project staff recruit, train and coach experienced teachers to become mentors for the project participants.