CFK introduces new bachelor’s degree in Exceptional Student Education 

Learn more at virtual event on June 28 

A CFK student studies in a classroom on the Key West Campus.

KEY WEST, FL, June 12, 2023— The College of the Florida Keys will introduce its newest baccalaureate degree, a Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education (BS-ESE), this upcoming fall semester, which begins August 18. The BS-ESE provides an opportunity for aspiring educators to become Florida certified teachers ready to fill teaching positions locally or in other parts of the state. Through coursework and field experience, the curriculum trains and educates individuals to assist and empower children with disabilities who need specially designed instruction and related services. Graduates of the program will be eligible to earn Florida Professional Teacher Certifications in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), Reading, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

The College’s BS-ESE was born through collaboration with Monroe County School District (MCSD) to help meet the need for credentialed K-12 teachers in the Florida Keys. Through their Grow Our Own initiative, MSCD is encouraging their paraprofessionals to pursue this opportunity and will provide tuition support for eligible individuals.

CFK’s BS-ESE follows a 2+2 model, in which a student first earns an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree or equivalent from CFK or another accredited institution before applying to the bachelor’s degree program to complete two years of upper-level courses.

Prospective students are invited to learn more about the new program at a virtual information event on Wednesday, June 28 at 5:30 p.m. The session will cover BS-ESES coursework and field experience, program requirements, information about a pre-req boot camp, and steps to apply and enroll.

The BS-ESE is pending approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Teacher Preparation anticipated in July 2023.

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