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Teacher Intern Ed Specialist: SDCOE
Teacher Intern Partnership
for Education Specialists (Special Education – Mild/Moderate, Extensive Support, Early Childhood, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Credentials)
The Teacher Intern Partnership Program offers Special Education credentials through San Diego County Office of Education. This two-year credentialing program allows candidates to work as the teacher of record while engaging in graduate-level coursework, one-on-one coaching, and monthly professional learning to become fully credentialed.
Learn More about San Diego County Office of Education
Have questions? Join us for a Q&A session.
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for this program?
This program is designed for individuals who are interested in being a teacher of record in a district while earing an Education Specialist Credential. The ideal candidates are those who:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree;
- Are currently teaching in their own classroom as the teacher of record*;
- Want to pursue a teaching credential while continuing to work as an educator; and
- Have met or are on track to meet the subject area requirements for the credential (either through the CSET exam or coursework).
How long does the program last?
Our partnership program pasts two years.
What coursework is offered?
Type of coursework:
- The coursework is primarily asynchronous and virtual, allowing participants to complete it at their own pace.
- Participants attend weekly virtual classes and engage in home learning.
- There is also montly in-person professional development for each cohort.
- Coaching is provided on-site to support participants’ growth througout the program.
What is the cost of the program?
The total cost is between $1,000-$6,000** over two years. The rest of the tuition is covered.
**Cost differentiation is based on equity indicators and district support.
What are the admission requirements for the Education Specialist Credential program?
To be eligible for this program, candidates must apply to both (two applications) ACOE and the San Diego Office of Education and meet the following criteria to be admitted:
- Attend a virtual information session (accessible on San Diego County COE’s website, link above)
- Enroll in Preservice:
- Posess a Bachelor’s Degree (Out of county transcripts must be evaluared by an approved institution)
- Be a first-time intern credential applicant
- Attain a certificate of clearance
- Complete 120 hours of preservice courses OR hold a current California multiple subject, single subject, or education specialist teaching credential
- Recommendation by preservice instructors
- Subject matter competency – provide evidence of being met (see below)
- U.S. Constitution (exam or coursework) – provide evidence of being met
- Signed offer of employment by school or district of at least 50% full time (FTE)
Subject Matter Competency for this credential can be met by passing the CSET exam OR completing coursework (transcript reviewed and verified for meeting SMR by San Diego COE; Early Childhood Special Education candidates can be exempted with a major in Child Development or verified completion of 24 units of coursework in Early Childhood Education/Child Development)
What is the resulting credential/degree?
Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will receive a Preliminary Mild/Moderate , Extensive Support Needs, Early Childhood, or Deaf & Hard of Hearing Teaching Credential.
Are there committments after completing the program?
Yes. You are commiting to teaching in a public school located within the geographic boundaries of Alameda County for three years after the credential is awarded.
What support is provided to accepted candidates?
Once accepted into the program, participants receive various types of support to help them succeed:
- Coaching: Participants receive ongoing, on-site coaching to support their development as educators.
- Professional Development: Monthly cohort-based professional development sessions are provided to foster continuous growth and learning.
- Financial Support: The program covers much of the tuition cost, making it affordable for candidates at a low cost of $500 per year.
- Mentorship: Participants are paired with mentors or coaches who provide personalized guidance.
- Tuition Coverage*: ACOE covers the majority of the tuition, with candidates only needing to pay the $500-$3,000 per year (totaling $1,000-$6,000 for the entire program. *Cost differentiation based on equity indicators and district support
- Resources and Guidance: The program offers logistica and navigational support throughout the admissions process and during the program to help candidates manage their coursework and certification requirements.
Overall, the program is structured to ensure participants receive comprehensive support both in their coursework and professional development, setting them up for success as they work toward earning their teaching credential.
Additional Resources
Upcoming Events
Contact Us
Channon Jackson
Teacher Intern Partnership Director
(510) 670-4122
cjackson@acoe.org
Kate Graham Devine
PATH Project Director
(510) 670-1804
kgrahamdevine@acoe.org
Kenan Delgado
Senior Program Director, Teacher Intern
(510) 670-4525
kdelgado@acoe.org