Dear Members of the Illinois Council for Exceptional Children, It is with great honor that I introduce myself as your incoming president. My name is Michael Edwards, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in me to serve in this esteemed role. Being chosen to lead this incredible organization is a privilege, and I am excited to work alongside all of you in advancing our shared mission. As a special education administrator at Springfield Public Schools, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the work we do for students, families, and educators. This perspective drives my commitment to our organization’s mission and the individuals we serve. As I step into this position, I am inspired by the remarkable legacy of leadership that has come before me. They have set a high standard for dedication, vision, and service to the Illinois Council for Exceptional Children. I hope to follow in their footsteps and continue the work of strengthening and growing this exceptional organization. The Illinois Council for Exceptional Children holds a vital role in the lives of the students we serve and the professionals who support them. Together, we advocate for and champion the rights, needs, and potential of every exceptional learner. This organization stands as a beacon of excellence, collaboration, and innovation in the field of special education, and I am committed to building upon that foundation.
Illinois was well represented among presenters and participants at the Annual CEC Convention in Baltimore, MD, March 12-15, 2025. Among the most memorable moments at the CEC Convention 2025 include participating with up to 6,000 of our CEC colleagues from all over the world at the Baltimore Convention Center; planned and unplanned meetings with our ICEC colleagues; two keynote sessions; the many break-out sessions that were packed with new ideas and innovative information; and an exhibit hall packed to the brim with special education innovations and supports. Other memorable events include the Awards Luncheon and the Yes, I Can Awards celebration. The entire event was enhanced by the Convention app that made communication among colleagues so easy. You are invited to participate in the CEC Virtual Convention 2025. Access to on-demand content begins on April 9, 2025 and will be available until July 9, 2025. The CEC Virtual Convention includes: Access to two keynote presentations titled “Beyond Silos: Creating a Culture of Collaboration to Empower Educators and Students” and a panel of experts who discuss “Envisioning Tomorrow for All Learners: AI Revolutionizing Education”; over 40 recorded presentations; access to session materials and handouts featuring a wide range of pertinent special education topics presented by national experts. Did you know CEC has 5 Foundations? These are special areas where you can donate to CEC special projects. These include the Advocacy Fund, Diversity, Fund for the Future, Rising Stars, and the Yes, I Can Fund. Donate to a cause that is dear to you today! Finally, plans are already underway for the CEC Convention and Expo in Salt Lake City, UT, March 11-14, 2026. Mark your calendar today!
Dr. Hollie Mason and five special education undergraduate students from Western Illinois University (WIU) attended the Special Education Legislative Summit in Washington, DC, July 29-August 1, 2024. They learned about three key policy issues (Special Education appropriations, mental health, and the critical nationwide educator shortage). They spoke directly to Congressmembers to share their stories and ask that they co-sponsor federal bills connected with the issues at hand. Dr. Mason and her students wanted to keep their advocacy efforts going beyond DC. Dr. Mason and her students presented, in hybrid format, what they learned as well as provided an opportunity for community members to write to their Congressmembers to ask for change in those key areas. They provided materials and information about how to connect with Senators and Representatives. Improved conditions for students with disabilities results in improved conditions for ALL students!
