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.
Welcome ICEC members, your colleagues, and friends! Each year at the CEC Convention & Expo, thousands of special education professionals from around the world come together to learn, share, grow, and connect. With hundreds of sessions on just about every topic in the field, the CEC Convention & Expo is THE professional development event for special educators to find research, tips, and strategies you can actually apply to supporting students with disabilities and/or gifts and talents. Add-On Workshops CEC offers workshops on Wednesday, March 12, and Saturday, March 15. These additional full- and half-day opportunities provide a closer look into a range of topics that will help you enhance your practice. These workshops will cover topics like crafting IEPs, AI and Education, improving student outcomes, specially designed instruction, and so much more! See the CEC website for more registration information and more details: https://exceptionalchildren.org/
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!
