Special Education Leadership Institute (SELI) 2026

New Cohort Launching January 2026

Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education, in partnership with Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES, offers the Special Education Leadership Institute (SELI)—a certificate program designed to prepare educators for leadership roles in special education at the school and district levels.

About the Program

The SELI program develops highly qualified leaders equipped to supervise and support special education programs across K–12 settings. Participants engage in a rigorous, cohort-based experience that combines legal, instructional, operational, and systems-level learning. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate from Fordham University.

Program Format and Cost

  • Schedule: Weekly live virtual sessions on Thursday afternoons

  • Start Date: January 2026

  • Program Fee: $2,750 (includes books and materials)

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for:

  • Building leaders overseeing special education (e.g., CSE chairs, assistant principals, principals)

  • Aspiring leaders seeking deeper understanding of how to manage and lead inclusive services

Program Highlights

  • Strengthen your capacity to lead inclusive, data-informed, and legally compliant special education programs

  • Gain insight into managing human, fiscal, and service-based aspects of special education leadership

  • Learn within a supportive, reflective cohort model that emphasizes real-world application through data-driven projects

Course Descriptions

Course 1: Special Education Practices, Services, and Issues
Explore trends in special education, inclusive service models, and data-based instructional strategies that support diverse learners.

Course 2: Management and Operations of Special Education Services
Deepen your knowledge of the legal, fiscal, and staffing components essential to leading special education programs effectively.

Course 3: Vision, Integration, and Systems for Special Education
Learn to build and communicate a unified vision that integrates special education with general education and community-based supports.

How to Apply

Secure Your Seat Now

For more information, contact: