In Only Fifteen Months, Emily Zutz Earned Both Certification and Master's in Special Education Through ABCTE Program Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Emily Zutz. Submitted photo.
"I was consistently impressed with the content provided in my classes and how much it was based on current research and instructional practices. Even though I have spent over a decade in the classroom, I still learned about practices that I could put into place the next day."
Emily Zutz had been a classroom educator for over 10 years before she decided to shift to special education.
"I’ve taught in many different general education settings: 5–8th grades, science or English Language Arts, depending on the year! While I’ve enjoyed those experiences, I really think that I’ve found my niche in special education," Zutz said. "This is a job that I could see myself doing forever."
Zutz holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and then served with Teach For America as an alternative route to a teaching certificate.
To pursue the specialized certification in special education, she enrolled in Point Park University's American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) program, and earned her Instructional I Certification in PK–12 Special Education. The ABCTE program allows students to complete coursework while working full-time, applying their new knowledge to their classroom immediately.
Zutz's employer, Propel Charter Schools, partnered with Point Park, and her coursework was funded by the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network Accelerated Program for PK–12 Special Education Teacher Certification Grant. This fall, she is a special education teacher at Propel Hazelwood.
What did you gain from your classes and the mentoring you received?
I was consistently impressed with the content provided in my classes and how much it was based on current research and instructional practices. Even though I have spent over a decade in the classroom, I still learned about practices that I could put into place the next day.
Which faculty members had an impact on you?
The support and feedback provided by Kristen Mitsutka, Ph.D., cannot be overstated. She was available and supportive from the time of admission through graduation. I found her availability and flexibility pivotal to my success in this program.
How did the program fit into your life and work schedule?
I was working full time in my first year as a special education teacher while completing the program. I’m also a mom of two. At times it was challenging to fit it all in, but the flexibility of the program was beneficial. I was also lucky to receive additional support through the residency program at Propel Schools.
How will this accomplishment allow you to reach your career goals?
While I have enjoyed my time as a general education teacher, aspects of that position made me question my longevity in the role. The special education ABCTE program and the collaboration facilitated by Dr. Misutka opened my eyes to different roles in the field of education. Throughout my time at Point Park, I was immediately putting what I learned into practice with my students. I have found these experiences so rewarding, and have greater satisfaction in my day-to-day job than ever before. While this is a relatively small shift in terms of career, my goals have shifted. I’m looking forward to many more years in the classroom, versus having one foot on the door — a feeling many in education today may be familiar with.
Credits from the ABCTE program can be applied to a master's program at Point Park. Are you returning for a master’s?
I started working on classes for my master's as soon as I finished the ABCTE program. I finished with my M.A. in Special Education in August!