ABOUT

Developed with support from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), the Special Education Academy is designed to equip administrators with the tools, knowledge, and strategies needed to lead effective special education programs. Each session focuses on timely, relevant topics and is led by experienced local practitioners and experts in the field.  

SESSION MODULES

Each session in the academy is intentionally designed to address the evolving, real-time needs of special education leaders using a “just-in-time” learning approach. To ensure relevance and responsiveness, survey data and feedback are used to inform the development of topics for the sessions. 

Sessions will be facilitated by experienced practitioners who bring practical insights, continuity, and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing special education leadership today.

2025–26 SCHEDULE

Sessions will be held via Zoom, 8:30–10 a.m. on the following dates: 

  • October 9, 2025

Video
Escalation Cycle PDF

  • November 13, 2025

Video
Presentation
Resource Folder 

  • December 11, 2025

Video
Presentation

  • January 14, 2026

Video

  • February 5, 2026

Video
Presentation: Toppenish Middle School’s Journey with an RTI structure
Sandra Birley, Executive Director of Special Education, Toppinish School District
Ruben Saldivar, Principal Toppinish Middle School

Presentation: Comprehensive Inclusive Education/Creating Inclusive IEPs
Betty Lopez, Executive Director of Special Services, Selah School District

  • March 5, 2026
  • April 30, 2026
  • June 4, 2026

REGISTRATION

Registration is complimentary and includes 12 Washington State Approved Clock Hours.

Register

Zoom
Soon after registering (within 24 hours), you will receive a Zoom meeting confirmation with your personal link to join the session. Please follow the link in the confirmation to save the meetings to your calendar. 

Access is limited to one person/device per email so please do not share your link. 

QUESTIONS

Contact Ryan Hickerson with registration questions.
Contact Kim Fry with general academy questions.