Department of Special Education

Project S.A.G.E.

Successful Access to General Education

Project S.A.G.E. prepares teachers to provide Successful Access to General Education Curriculum for students with Severe Intellectual Disabilities (InD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The purpose of Project S.A.G.E.  is to prepare teachers to be Highly Qualified and provide meaningful access to the   general curriculum in least restrictive school environments to students with ASD and severe InD. In order to meet the objectives of Project S.A.G.E. we will implement a new Master of Arts in ASD and severe InD with coursework leading to Florida Endorsements in

Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The  M.A. in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Severe Intellectual Disabilities is designed to ensure that all graduates are prepared to be:

• reflective practitioners, who are able to evaluate and continuously learn from their own teaching
• collaborative professionals who work cooperatively with children, families, and other professionals to solve problem and improve educational opportunities for all children
• professionals who affirm diversity and are capable of working sensitively and productively with a wide range of abilities, cultures, and economic influences representative of today's society ethical professionals who are competent, knowledgeable of theory and research, and skilled in the "best practices" of special education in least restrictive environments.

The criteria for Project S.A.G.E. participants is as follows:

• Must satisfy entrance and program requirements for USF, the College of Education, and the Department of Special Education.
• Attend bi-monthly seminars
• Make a commitment to complete the program in the allotted time.
• Sign contract acknowledging service obligation.
• Must be enrolled at least half-time each semester as designated by the University of South Florida.

Approved Project S.A.G.E participants will be provided with financial assistance while they are fulfilling program requirements.  The application process is highly competitive, please submit all application materials in a timely manner.

To request an Application and/or more information,

please contact:

Aisha Holmes

ajholme3@coedu.usf.edu

(813) 974-4509

SAGE Project Director:

Dr. Phyllis Jones

Phone: 813-974-6588

Fax: 813-974-5542

pjones7@.coedu.usf.edu