Aspiring Special Education Leaders Academy

The Aspiring Special Education Leaders Academy is designed for educators who aspire to be in a leadership position and who are not currently a special education director. Individuals must be nominated and complete an application to be considered for selection into this Academy.

The Academy is a program established to assist school divisions and state-operated programs with succession planning and is designed to help prepare potential leaders for future administrative positions in special education.

This is a year-long program that will include workshops, seminars, observations, assignments and field experiences. Participants will have opportunities to gain knowledge, skills and experiences that will help them excel in positions of special education leadership.

2013 Nomination Process

Nomination for the Aspiring Special Education Leaders Academy will be accepted through April 26, 2013

The VDOE is now accepting one application per school division, state-operated program, regional program and training/technical assistance center for Academy participation. Approximately 30 participants will be selected for the 2013-2014 cohort. While all of the above-referenced entities are invited to nominate promising special education leaders, preference will be given to those who have not had participants in past cohorts. Candidates for the Academy may include administrators holding entry level positions and/or teachers, student services staff, and related services staff who have demonstrated leadership. All candidates must possess at least a master’s degree or be near completion and be endorsed by their special education director and division superintendent or designee. Divisions and programs are encouraged to consider internal competitions prior to submitting their nominee.

Strength of candidate's written statement articulating interest in and commitment to special education leadership
Virginia license in special education or a related field
Experiences in special education and accomplishments as reflected in résumé
Endorsement by special education director and division superintendent or designee

Endorsement by division superintendent or designee
Balanced and diverse regional representation

VDOE will fund costs associated with lodging, speaker fees and relevant materials. School divisions or other sending agencies will need to assume costs related to mileage reimbursement and substitutes.

Virginia has traditionally conducted an academy for newly-appointed special education directors. That academy will continue to be offered. As in the past, letters of invitation will be sent directly to the newly-appointed directors.

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