State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG)
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), Special Education Services (SES) has been awarded a five-year grant by the U.S. Department of Education. The 2022 Oklahoma State Personnel Development Grant (OK SPDG IV), which will run from October 2022 until October 2027, is used to assist the OSDE in reforming and improving systems for professional development in order to improve results for children with disabilities.
Checkout more resources on our SPDG linktree webpage.
SPARK Early Career Special Education Conference Coming This July📣
The Oklahoma Special Education Conference is excited to host the SPARK Early Career Special Education Conference at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, July 27–30. This four‑day event is designed to equip new special educators with the tools, confidence, and community they need to thrive in their early years of teaching. Each day features a blend of keynote speakers, SPARK‑specific training, and opportunities to participate in the broader Special Education Conference sessions.
The conference kicks off on July 27 with a full day of early‑career–focused professional learning. On July 28–29, participants will engage in SPARK training alongside free‑choice sessions from the statewide SPED Conference. The event concludes on July 30 with a targeted session, Building a Strong Behavior System: From Tier 1 Foundations to Targeted Supports, designed to strengthen classroom systems and student outcomes.
Educators are encouraged to register by scanning the QR code on the flyer. Attendees should also check with their supervisors about Project 619 and 613 funds, which may help cover travel costs. This conference is an excellent opportunity for early‑career special educators to build skills, connect with peers, and ignite their passion for the work ahead
Please be sure to complete your Registration for our ability to accurately expect participation.
SPARK Application📣
The SPARK Program (Special Education Professional Advancement and Refinement of Knowledge) is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This opportunity supports Oklahoma special educators with five or fewer years of experience through either SPARK Instructional Coaching or a CEC Professional Learning pathway. Participants may earn a $2,000 instructional coaching stipend or $500 toward CEC professional development upon successful completion. Applications are open June 2–August 7, and educators can apply by visiting the OKSPDG Linktree.
SPDG MTSS Implementation Course:
The SPDG MTSS Implementation Course will provide the essential knowledge on the components of a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), including sustainable teaming, data-driven decision making, and evidence-based practices within a continuous improvement model. Participants will develop knowledge and practice skills with implementation steps. Click the buttons below to join the course.
To access the SPDG MTSS Implemtation course please view OSDE Connect website to locate this course.
SPDG Supports
- Implementation Resources
- Professional Development
- Coaching
- Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Explore All OKSPDG Resources in One Place
Discover everything OKSPDG offers—all in one easy place. Our Linktree connects you to the tools, trainings, and supports that help Oklahoma educators strengthen MTSS implementation and improve outcomes for students statewide.
What You’ll Find
MTSS Resources for every tier
SPARK Program info & applications
Training Opportunities for educators
Conference Details and registration links
Social Media & Videos to stay connected
Access it all instantly
Checkout the OKSPDG Linktree today!
SPDG Staff
- Alexa Hudak, SPDG/SSIP, Program Manager
- Jasmin Brown, SPDG/SSIP, Project Manager
- Wendy Hardwick, MTSS Specialist
- Racheal Becker, MTSS Specialist
- Benjamin Taylor, Digital Data & AI Project Manager
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), Special Education Services (SES) has been awarded a five-year grant by the U.S. Department of Education. The 2022 Oklahoma State Personnel Development Grant (OK SPDG IV), which will run from October 2022 until October 2027, is used to assist the OSDE in reforming and improving systems for professional development in order to improve results for children with disabilities.