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Award of Distinction

The annual award recognizes the outstanding service and leadership in the role of a local district public school special education director. The candidate of the award must be an approved Director of Special Education and must be employed (or functions) as such in the LEA; demonstrates qualities of service, leadership, vision and collaboration, is a leader of vision and has implemented innovative programming which contributes to the field of special education. Including in the decision are qualities regarding organizational involvement, volunteerism and years of service.

2013 Award of Distinction Winner

Sue Pearson

Position: Director of Special Education District: Harland Consolidated Schools 9525 Highland Road Howell, MI 48836

About: Following is the text of Michelle DeJaeger's presentation of the award: Good morning, I’d like to welcome you to the presentation of the MAASE 2012-13 Award of Distinction. This annual award recognizes outstanding service and leadership of a MAASE member in the role of a local school district special education administrator. The candidate of this award must be an approved Director or Supervisor of Special Education and someone who demonstrates the qualities of lifelong learning, service to children, leadership, and collaboration. The recipient is a leader of vision and has implemented innovative programs that contribute to the field of special education. Including in the decision are qualities regarding organizational involvement, volunteerism and years of service. There can be no greater recognition than that which is afforded by one’s peers and that is what makes all MAASE Awards so very special. The story behind today’s recipient is all about lifelong learning, service to children, leadership, and collaboration. Today’s recipient is a leader of vision and has implemented innovative programs that contribute to the field of special education. As an honors graduate of Eastern Michigan University, today’s recipient began their career as a Special Education Teacher in a classroom for students with cognitive disabilities where he (or she) participated with the school improvement team and with many other school related leadership activities including School-Business Partnerships. While demonstrating leadership skills very early in his or her career, this individual quickly went on to work as a Special Education Supervisor while continuing involvement in providing in-service education for teachers and developing and implementing new and innovative programs and services. As a lifelong learner today’s recipient has earned Masters and Specialists degrees in Educational Leadership at Wayne State University and has continued graduate work at Grand Valley State University. He (or she) has also continued to avail themselves to numerous continuing education activities including MAASE workshops and district and ISD professional learning opportunities. This individual’s intelligence, tenacity, and willingness to work hard in the face of obstacles has caused him (or her) to continue to move up the ladder quickly including serving as a college instructor. Today’s recipient is an outstanding advocate for children with disabilities. It is widely recognized that he (or she) has worked throughout their career to establish quality programs and services in all schools and believes strongly that good teachers deserve quality administrators. Let’s hear from some of this individual’s staff and school administrators: On of this individuals staff members notes: When I think of the term “Leader” the first person that comes to mind is (this person). First, he (or she) encompasses all of the characteristics that make an individual a phenomenal leader: she is charismatic, intelligent, diligent, and approachable. She has strong values and is passionate about their vision for what special education should look like. She ultimately loves what she does, and this is evident during team meetings, IEPs, and even the simplest of conversations. Her approach with parents is delicate, yet honest which is a gift that does not come easy to most people. That is what makes her so wonderful: she makes it look easy. Her confidence and finesse is astounding and to someone who aspires to be in a leadership role one day, I am incredibly blessed to have such an amazing role model. All of these traits add up to a wonderful boss, and most importantly, a wonderful person who deserves to be recognized for everything that she is and does for our community. A Special Education Administrator Colleague writes: The person promotes collaborative problem solving on behalf of all students, engaging her staff in team-building activities that develop mutual trust. Whenever necessary she will advocate for unpopular or unconventional positions, especially when it’s in the best interest of children. She is an outstanding mentor and tireless advocate for Literacy. Another staff member writes: She is always open to new ideas and is extremely respectful. She has proved to be a dynamic administrator who has created an environment focused on achievement for all students. Under her leadership the focus is on what students can do rather than what they cannot do. She has has always encouraged me to think outside of the box and put children first. I have grown as a staff member under her leadership because she challenges me to be the best I can be no matter how difficult change can be. She is always available and willing to support her staff (even on weekends and evenings). I can go to her with any issue, question (or even complaint) and leave with a solution that works. Please join me in saluting this year’s recipient of the Award of Distinction-- the Director of Special Education for Hartland Consolidated Schools… Sue Pearson

Past Award of Distinction Winners