Unique Challenges of Small Special Educator Preparation Program Faculty at HBCUs

Evolving special educator preparation programs face distinct challenges that impact faculty and influence the quality of the programs for preservice teachers. This unique challenge case study is designed to describe the experiences of two special educator preparation faculty members serving at Historically Black Universities with small, evolving special educator preparation programs. This paper discusses challenges such as mentorship, course loads, resources, service to the community, and collaboration that these faculty members face and the methods that have been developed to moderate these challenges. This case also highlights the value of acknowledging challenges that exist in small special educator preparation programs at HBCUs and discusses creative solutions to resolve those challenges with the ultimate goal of advancing the special educator preparation programs at these institutions and to increase teacher diversity in the workforce.