PaCASE Monthly Update December 2024
Pa Council of Administrators of Special Education
We need YOU!
As we further develop communication and engagement efforts, we are seeking nominations for our Board of Directors. If you are interested in a role on the PaCASE Board please complete the nomination form below. Elections will be held later this year. If you do not wish to join the board but are interested in helping with our mission and vision, please email us at pacase.president@gmail.com
The Policy Committees of CEC and CASE are at the forefront of advocating for funding, staff recruitment and retention, and educational reform. As we embark on a new administration in Washington it is more important now than ever that special education administrators have a strong voice in their respective states and also in Washington.
As members of CASE and CEC, you have access to position and policy statements that have been developed by each organizations’ policy committees. The position and policy statements give members insight into the goals, direction and philosophies of CASE and CEC. Further, the statements can provide useful information and as resources that can impact your current practice.
If you are interested in becoming a policy committee member for CASE or CEC, the process is outlined under the policy tab on the CASE and CEC websites.
Consider signing up for the CASE Collective occurring in January. This is open to all CASE members and non CASE members so share with colleagues. Join CASE Leadership and Myrna Mandlawitz, CASE Policy and Legislative Consultant, for a discussion of current happenings in Washington D.C. related to public and special education. Learn how CASE provides a collective voice for leaders of special education and participate in an active Q & A.
Topics will include:- What does a presidential transition look like?
- Is it possible to close the U.S. Department of Education, and what would that mean for IDEA and students with disabilities?
- What can leaders do to be proactive in times of change?
Don't forget to check out the CASE website in the member only section and sign up for some of the trainings and webinars below.
New Directors’ Network: January 2025 “Help I just Found Out I’m Being Monitored”
Wellness Wednesdays: January 2025 “What's the Solution to the Resolution?” with Ricky Robertson
If you are not familiar with Vanderbilt’s IRIS Center, you must take time to explore the plethora of resources available to educators at NO cost!
Supported by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and located at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College, the IRIS Center creates high-quality, online resources about evidence-based instructional and behavioral practices to help improve the education outcomes of all students, especially struggling learners and those with disabilities.
A few of our favorite learning modules that you may find valuable for your staff:
From Dr. Kevin Rubenstein, CASE President (president@casecec.org)
As a valued member of PaCASE you are already part of a dedicated community working to advance special education in PA. But have you considered taking your professional engagement to the next level?
The Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) offers unparalleled opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside leaders in our field on a national level. Share with colleagues who are non members the below as we grow our membership and community to support one another into the coming year. By joining CASE, you’ll gain access to:
- Exclusive Resources and Tools: Stay ahead with access to cutting-edge research, professional development materials, and innovative strategies tailored for special education administrators.
- National Advocacy and Policy Influence: Be part of the collective voice shaping education policy at the state and federal levels. Your membership strengthens our ability to advocate for students, families, and educators.
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with a diverse network of professionals across the country. Share insights, challenges, and solutions with colleagues who understand your work.
- Leadership Development: Enhance your leadership skills through targeted programs and mentorship opportunities.
CASE is more than a professional organization – it’s a community of change-makers who are passionate about creating equitable and effective learning environments for all students.
Joining is simple and affordable, and the benefits will amplify the work you’re already doing through PA. Simply visit https://exceptionalchildren.org/membership/case to get started as a member.
Let’s continue making a difference together. Become a CASE member today, and help us lead the charge for positive change in special education.
Learn more about our PaCASE partner sponsor Global Special Education Associates who provide the below and much more: program audits; systemic planning facilitation; professional learning for all levels of staff; special education leadership academy; consulting services; school safety training; EL services/training; MTSS plan development; science of intervention academic program development.
Check out their website by clicking here-https://www.bfglobalassociates.com/
PaCASE Board Contact Information
CONTACT:
Dr. Ann Marie Lucas
PaCASE President
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