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The first signs are often easy to miss: a toddler who struggles to communicate; a preschooler who has difficulty connecting with classmates; a family searching for answers, support and someone who understands what their child needs to thrive.

For many young children with disabilities, early intervention can change the trajectory of a lifetime. Yet across Colorado and the nation, there is a pressing need for school psychologists with specialized expertise in supporting infants, toddlers and preschoolers during these critical early years.

That is why the University of Colorado Denver is launching Project Transform: Training School Psychologists to Advance Evidence Based Practices with Young Children with Disabilities, a new five-year initiative supported by a $1.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Led by Rachel Stein, PhD, principal investigator and assistant professor in school psychology and Elizabeth Steed, PhD, co-principal investigator and professor in early childhood special education, the project will prepare 12 doctoral students in CU Denver's School Psychology PsyD program to become specialists in evidence-based practices for young children with disabilities and their families.

Project Transform scholars will build on the rigorous preparation already provided through CU Denver's American Psychological Association-accredited and National Association of School Psychologists-approved PsyD program. Scholars will receive specialized training focused on supporting young children with disabilities through additional coursework, summer institutes, professional development, and mentored field experiences in preschools and other types of early intervention and early childhood settings such as Child Find teams.

The grant provides scholars with tuition assistance, stipends, and professional development funding, helping students focus on developing the skills they need to make a meaningful difference.

"Through Project Transform, we're preparing school psychologists with specialized expertise to support young children with disabilities and their families when intervention can have the greatest impact. We're excited to begin recruiting students immediately and to expand the pipeline of professionals who can serve communities across Colorado," Stein said.

The program is actively seeking students who are interested in becoming a school psychologist, passionate about serving young children with disabilities and their families, and committed to advanced training beyond standard doctoral requirements. The GRE is not required for admission. Coursework and field experiences are completed in person. Interested students are encouraged to apply to CU Denver's School Psychology PsyD program this fall and connect with the Project Transform team for funding and application information.

"At the School of Education & Human Development, we are committed to preparing professionals who improve lives and strengthen communities," said Marvin Lynn, PhD, dean of the School of Education & Human Development. "Project Transform reflects that commitment. I’m so proud of Dr. Stein and Dr. Steed for bringing forward this project. And we are extremely thankful to the U.S. Department of Education for funding the project. This grant will have a lasting impact for the children whose futures may be shaped by an early conversation, an accurate assessment or the right support at the right time.”

Project Transform represents something powerful: possibility. And for the next generation of school psychologists, it offers a chance to turn that possibility into a career packed with positive impact.

To join the interest list for this doctoral program funding opportunity, please email [email protected].