Endorsement Program in Adapted Physical Education
Teacher of Students Requiring Adapted Physical Education
This state approved program leads to endorsement as a “teacher of students requiring adapted physical education” (SP endorsement). The program requires a minimum of 24 credit hours: 12 credits in approved special education courses and 12 credits in adapted physical education (kinesiology) courses.
Requirements for the adapted physical education (APE) endorsement can be completed as a part of undergraduate studies; as a stand-alone (post-bachelor’s) endorsement; or as a part of a Master of Education (MED) in Kinesiology - Physical Education Pedagogy. As such, physical educators who wish to earn their masters degree can also earn the APE endorsement as part of their graduate studies.
Individuals interested in the endorsement program or in adapted physical education should contact Dr. Suzanna Dillon at (313) 577-9847 or sdillon@wayne.edu.
The Michigan Leadership and Education in
Adapted Physical Education (MI-LEAPE) Project
The purpose of the federally funded MI-LEAPE Project is to prepare highly qualified adapted physical educators to teach children and youth with disabilities in high-need schools through an expanded and improved curriculum. The MI-LEAPE Project is a collaborative effort between Wayne State University, the Michigan Department of Education, local school districts, parents of children with disabilities, and local community-based programs for individuals with disabilities. Over the four-year grant period, it is anticipated that at least 28 highly qualified APE teachers will be trained and available to provide services to students with disabilities, particularly in high-need schools. As such, these graduates will help address the state’s critical shortage of adapted physical educators and increase the quality and quantity of APE services to students with disabilities. Additional information about the MI-LEAPE Project can be found in the brochure.
State certified physical educators and special educators are eligible to receive financial assistance as a scholar through the MI-LEAPE Project Fellowship. Educators interested in the MI-LEAPE Project Fellowship, funded by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Personnel Preparation Grants (CFDA 84.325K), should:
- Review the frequently asked questions service obligation and repayment requirements at http://www.serviceobligations.ed.gov/2006faq.cfm#introduction
- Review and follow the MI-LEAPE Project Application Process and submit the appropriate materials including the MI-LEAPE Fellowship Application.
a. Whenever possible, completed application materials should be submitted to Dr. Suzanna Dillon by May 1st for consideration for the following academic year.