Professional Learning with MAASE
As MAASE continues to grow, we are proud to expand our professional learning offerings to better support you. We believe that ongoing professional learning is the cornerstone of effective leadership and meaningful change in special education. Our programs empower educators and administrators with the skills, knowledge, and strategies needed to create inclusive, equitable, and innovative learning environments. With the help of grant funding and the hard work of our dedicated leaders, staff, and partners, we have developed a broad range of learning opportunities, including hands-on workshops, webinars, leadership academies, and mentorship programs, all designed to strengthen your impact and address the evolving challenges in special education.
In addition to our core offerings such as Tuesday Professional Learning, Developing Leaders, and the Summer Institute Conference, we are excited to introduce new initiatives, including mentoring programs and the Developing Inclusive Leaders series for building administrators. As you explore these opportunities, we encourage you to align them with your professional learning goals. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, develop new skills, or stay updated on the latest trends, professional learning is not just an investment in individuals but a commitment to building stronger educational communities and shaping the future of special education. We look forward to your continued participation and to working together to advance special education leadership.
"I love the connections that I have with our members, and the professional learning. The interactions and to just know there’s others in the field that have the same questions and comments and you can brainstorm and solve problems together collaboratively." - Sarah Vander Baan,
Senior Director of Specially Designed Instruction - Choice Schools Associates
"I love learning at MAASE because it promotes a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and shared growth. It is a place where I can expand my skills, stay ahead with best practices, and engage with a community that values professional learning. This commitment not only enriches my own development but also drives meaningful progress and collective success." - Kim Iverson,
Associate Superintendent of Special Education - Montcalm Area ISD
"I begin each school year excited to participate in MAASE learning. Our professional development opportunities are among the few specifically designed for the work I'm privileged to do. I especially value the chance to connect and collaborate with other local directors and supervisors as we navigate the challenges and successes of each academic year." - James Nuse, Ph.D.,
Executive Director of Special Education Services and Early Childhood - Ionia Public Schools
Ways to learn with MAASE
The Adaptive Schools Foundation Seminar offers a practical and effective set of strategies and tools to help develop collaborative teams capable of addressing complex student learning challenges. The seminar focuses on building the resources and capabilities of both individuals and organizations to adapt and respond cohesively to the evolving needs of students and society.
MAASE recognizes the significant impact that Artificial Intelligence is having on special education and its potential to transform the educational experiences of students with special needs. In this insightful webinar series, we will explore various facets of AI, examining its practical applications and benefits. Sessions will cover topics such as foundational AI concepts, ethical implications, and regulatory considerations; how AI can streamline administrative tasks and improve resource allocation; AI-driven tools for personalizing instruction and increasing accessibility; and the latest AI technologies that support student assessment and IEP goal setting.
Developing Leaders is the go-to space for addressing current challenges in special education alongside fellow MAASE members. This informal "Ed Camp" style event allows participants to brainstorm topics the day before, with notes taken to capture the insights, ideas, and resources shared by members on the key issues of the day.
Research demonstrates that mentoring offers valuable benefits for both the mentor and mentee. These benefits include a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction from helping others, contributing to the professional growth of colleagues, expanding networks and fostering community, as well as enhancing and developing professional skills. Additionally, mentors will receive a complimentary MAASE membership for the academic year in which they serve.
The Michigan Special Education Legislative Summit (Mi SELS), hosted by the MAASE Advocacy Committee, offers a unique opportunity to advocate for students with disabilities by building strong connections with state legislators. This two-day event will provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective advocacy, followed by a chance to apply those skills in a supportive and empowering environment.
The MAASE New Administrator Academy offers a support structure for newly employed Michigan special education administrators (within their first three years) to build the skills needed for success. The program provides mentorship opportunities with experienced MAASE administrators, explores relevant content, and supports the real-world application of the MDE Standards of Practice for Special Education Administrators. Administrators will also benefit from learning with state and federal staff or field-experienced professionals.
The SLIP Community of Practice invites all to attend the annual SLIP Winter Conference, designed to support supervisors of low incidence programs and center-based programming, though all are welcome. Attendees can expect to gain valuable, up-to-date insights from statewide experts and peers. The conference will cover relevant and timely topics, with more details to be shared closer to the event. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from diverse presenters, engage in networking and discussions, and dedicate time to working on action items. Supervisors are encouraged to bring their teams for an enriched experience.
In line with MAASE's mission to provide "...opportunities for leadership development, collaboration, and advocacy...", more than 800 special educators gather each year in August to engage in leadership development and collaborate on key topics crucial to the field of special education.
The annual Technical Assistance Conference is dedicated to supporting professionals involved in general supervision, monitoring, and technical assistance within the field. This event highlights the important work of ISDs across the state, covering topics such as general supervision systems, special education data compliance, SPP indicators, and overall special education outcomes.
MAASE’s Tuesday Professional Learning sessions offer educators and administrators a dynamic space to deepen their understanding of special education best practices. These sessions feature expert-led discussions, hands-on strategies, and opportunities for collaborative learning, ensuring participants leave with actionable insights to enhance their impact in schools and communities.
MAASE offers a variety of ticket types so you can customize your event experience.
All Access Tickets: Allows you to attend Tuesday professional learning, Wednesday Developing Leaders, and Wednesday General Membership Meeting (1 full day, 1 half day)
Member $225 ($260 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)
Non-Member $270 ($305 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)
Tuesday Only Tickets: Allows you to attend Tuesday professional learning only (1 full day)
Member $155 ($190 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)
Non-Member $200 ($235 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)
Wednesday Only Tickets: Allows you to attend Wednesday Developing Leaders and Wednesday General Membership Meeting (1 half day)
Member $70 ($105 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)
Non-Member $70 ($105 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)