Murray O. Batten Humanitarian Award
The Murray O. Batten Humanitarian Award is named in honor of Murray O. Batten, former Director of Special Education in the Michigan Department of Education. Nominations of deserving candidates are solicited and received by the ISD/ESA Board of Directors representative. A review committee is selected to critique the nominations with emphasis on the characteristics exemplified by Mr. Batten; Leadership, Honesty, Integrity and Dedication. This prestigious award is presented annually at the December MAASE meeting. The Batten Award was first presented in 1984.
An Amazing Career. . .
Following graduation from Wayne State University, Mr. Batten began his career serving as a teacher in the Detroit Public Schools. He then became a social worker in the psychological clinic and from there a teacher of emotionally disturbed children, all in the Detroit Public Schools.
He then moved to Lansing in 1960 where he joined the Michigan Department of Education as a consultant in special education. He was promoted to supervisor of federal assistance programs for persons with disabilities in 1971. In 1973, he became state director of special education, a position he held until 1981. Throughout his career, Mr. Batten was an outstanding leader in many state and national professional organizations. He was a recipient of the Marvin E. Beekman Award in 1982.
In His Honor. . .
Murray Batten had a reputation for being a kind, compassionate listener, who always sought the positive in those with whom he came in contact. After his untimely death in 1983, MAISEA decided to sponsor the Murray O. Batten Humanitarian Award.
The Award. . .
This award is given to practicing ISD/ESA special education administrators who emulate the qualities of honesty, integrity, trust, and compassion that were exemplified by Murray Batten throughout his lifetime.
This special award is dedicated at a special time of the year, which is most reflective of the ideals of this compassionate and caring man. The award will be presented at the MAASE meeting scheduled in February.
Nominations
Nominations for the Murray O. Batten Award are considered by the MAASE Murray O. Batten Award Committee. This committee is formed annually and is chaired by the MAASE Board of Directors ISD/ESA Representative.
2024 Murray O. Batten Humanitarian Award Winner
Darrin Adair
Director of Special Education, Branch County ISD
Following is an excerpt of the presentation by Britt Pionk, Board of Directors ISD/ESA Representative:
Today, it is my great honor to stand before you and introduce the recipient of the 2024
Murray O’Batten Humanitarian Award. Before I do, however, I must extend my heartfelt
gratitude to the MAASE membership for their dedication in nominating candidates this
year. Moreover, I want to express a special thanks to those who generously volunteered
their time to review the nominations. Your commitment to recognizing the exceptional
contributions within our community is truly commendable.
As I've had the privilege of reading about the myriad of contributions made by our
members across the state, I have been inspired. Each story exemplifies the unwavering
dedication and compassion that characterize our field. From advocating for our
students, families, and staff to seeking innovative solutions to our complex work your
collective efforts have undoubtedly made a profound impact on countless lives.
So, to each and every one of you gathered here today, I extend my sincere gratitude for
your tireless commitment and unwavering passion. Your work not only enhances the
quality of education and care within our community but also serves as a beacon of hope
and compassion for those in need
For nearly three decades, this individual has been tirelessly dedicated to the field of
education, particularly in the realm of special education. Throughout their 26-year
journey, they have exemplified unwavering commitment and steadfast determination in
ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive.
Currently serving as the Assistant Superintendent of Special Education this individual's
tenure spans nine years, during which they have left an indelible mark on the
educational landscape. Their vision is crystal clear: every student, regardless of their
unique needs, deserves access to quality education tailored to meet them where they
are on the continuum of care.
Under their leadership, the special education department has experienced remarkable
growth, expanding from 117 employees to an impressive 195. This expansion has
facilitated the realization of their vision – to provide comprehensive support within
classrooms and ensure that every student receives the resources necessary for
success
This person has cultivated a culture of collaboration and open communication among
their team, fostering an environment where no one feels alone or isolated. When
challenges arise, their team rallies together, guided by thier unwavering leadership, to
find innovative solutions.
Their dedication extends beyond the local level, as they actively participate in
organizations like MAASE, utilizing their wealth of knowledge and expertise to
contribute meaningfully to the field of special education statewide.
This individual’s team shared that this persons unwavering commitment to honesty has
not only enriched thier work environment but has also set a shining example for all. In a
world where integrity is often tested, this individual, has consistently prioritized honesty
in every aspect of their role as Assistant Superintendent of Special Education.
The team shared a particular instance last spring that truly showcased thier dedication
to honesty and transparency. Confronted with a serious issue and allegation within the
special education department, this person demonstrated remarkable courage by
bringing the team together to address the situation head-on. He fearlessly
communicated his insights, knowledge, and concerns, fostering conversations that were
both vulnerable and crucial. Through this open dialogue, we were able to confront
challenges, navigate through adversity, and emerge stronger and more united as a
team.
Whether faced with challenges or successes, this person has consistently shown
remarkable integrity by initiating communication and addressing situations with honesty
and transparency. His actions have not only strengthened the foundation of trust within
their team but have also fostered an atmosphere where open and candid
communication is valued and encouraged.
This individual consistently demonstrates integrity by fearlessly bringing important
issues to the table, even when it means challenging established practices within the
organization. This has been witnessed firsthand while this person was collaborating
with our union membership. Time and time again, they have stood up for union
members, advocating for what is fair and just, even if it means potential financial costs
or changes to existing procedures.
Their foresight and dedication to addressing challenges are evident in their proactive
approach to tackling the teacher shortage issue. Years before it became a widespread
concern, they initiated a proposal for an "internal" grow-your-own program within the
union. This initiative allowed paraprofessionals to receive the pay and benefits of a
teacher while working towards certification, benefiting both the district and the
individuals involved. Despite potential cost increases for the district, this individual
prioritized the well-being of employees and the educational needs of students, reflecting
their values of fairness and support.
Their actions are not motivated by personal gain but by a genuine desire to advocate for
others and uphold the organization's principles. Time and time again, they have
demonstrated their unwavering commitment to integrity, consistently doing what is right
and just, regardless of the circumstances.
In all that they do, this individual exemplifies integrity each and every day. Their
dedication to fairness, advocacy for others, and unwavering commitment to doing what
is right serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all.
One aspect that truly illustrates this individual's determination is their long-term
commitment to students with (IEPs). From their beginnings as an EI teacher to their
current role as Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, they have remained
steadfast in their dedication to students and families with special needs. Despite facing
numerous challenges along the way, they have dedicated their professional life to
ensuring that all students receive the education they deserve.
The impact of this individual's dedication extends far beyond the county they serve; their
years of devoted service to students with special needs have enriched the entire state.
I think you will agree with our readers that this person emulate the qualities of honesty,
integrity, trust, and compassion that were exemplified by Murray Batten throughout his
lifetime.MAASE colleagues, our 2023-24 Batten award winner is...Darrin Adair, Director of Special Education from Branch County ISD.
2023 Kirsten Myers
2021 Jeff Reinelt
2020 David Krantz
2019 Donna Jones
2017 Beth Alberti
2016 John Bretschneider
2015 Cherie Wager
2014 Eric Hoppstock
2013 Dawn Bentley
2012 Ann Walton
2011 Laurie Jefsen
2010 Janis Weckstein
2009 Randy Schantz
2008 Sharon Melko
2007 Pamela Zandt
2006 Diane Heinzelman
2005 Greg LaMore
2004 Laurie VanderPloeg
2003 Scott Hubble
2002 Wayne Buletza
2001 Mike Contat
1999 Ruggero Dozzi
1998 Jeff Siegel
1995 George Barnes
1994 Fred Chappell
1993 Jay Leach
1992 Harry Grether
1991 Marge Joslin
1990 Tom Howard
1989 Jerry Reimann
1988 Ed Birch
1987 Gene Thurber
1986 Annlee Decent
1985 Richard Baldwin
1984 John Mader