2/12/2025
11:45 AM MST

September: Introduction and Goal Setting

• Topic: Building a Strong Foundation: Establishing Mentoring Goals and Understanding the Role of a Special Education Administrator
• Focus:
  • Overview of the mentoring program.
  • Setting personal and professional goals specific to special education leadership.
  • Understanding the unique responsibilities and expectations of a special education administrator.

October: Legal and Ethical Responsibilities in Special Education

• Topic: Navigating the Legal Landscape: Compliance and Ethical Leadership in Special Education
• Focus:
  • Understanding IDEA, Section 504, and other relevant laws.
  • Navigating legal and ethical dilemmas.
  • Ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.

November: Building and Leading an Effective Special Education Team

• Topic: Team Leadership: Building and Managing an Effective Special Education Team
• Focus:
  • Hiring, training, and retaining special education staff.
  • Building collaborative relationships with general education teachers.
  • Developing a supportive and inclusive team culture.

December: Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

• Topic: Mastering the IEP Process: Developing and Implementing Effective IEPs
• Focus:
  • Best practices in IEP development.
  • Ensuring IEPs are legally compliant and tailored to individual student needs.
  • Engaging parents and guardians in the IEP process.

January: Data-Driven Decision Making in Special Education

• Topic: Using Data to Drive Success: Monitoring Progress and Making Informed Decisions
• Focus:
  • Collecting and analyzing data on student progress.
  • Using data to inform instructional practices and interventions.
  • Reporting and using data for continuous improvement.

February: Family and Community Engagement in Special Education

• Topic: Building Partnerships: Engaging Families and the Community in Special Education
• Focus:
  • Effective communication strategies with families.
  • Collaborating with community organizations and resources.
  • Building trust and fostering positive relationships with families.

March: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Students and Families

• Topic: Understanding and Supporting Diversity: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Students and Families in Special Education
• Focus:
  • Addressing the unique challenges faced by culturally and linguistically diverse students with disabilities.
  • Implementing culturally responsive practices in special education.
  • Engaging families from diverse backgrounds.

April: Crisis Management and Behavior Support

• Topic: Responding to Challenges: Crisis Management and Positive Behavioral Interventions
• Focus:
  • Developing crisis management plans tailored to students with special needs.
  • Implementing positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS).
  • Handling emergencies and behavior issues effectively.

May: Budgeting and Resource Management in Special Education

• Topic: Managing Resources: Budgeting and Allocating Resources for Special Education Programs
• Focus:
  • Understanding special education funding sources.
  • Budgeting for programs, staff, and resources.
  • Making strategic decisions to maximize resources.

June: Reflective Practice and Future Planning

• Topic: Reflecting and Planning: Continuous Growth and Preparing for the Future
• Focus:
  • Reviewing progress and achievements in special education leadership.
  • Setting goals for the next school year.
  • Encouraging ongoing professional development and reflective practice.

IASA's mentoring program is a comprehensive support system that complements the supports provided through the State Department of Education (SDE). It’s an opportunity to set yourself up for success from the start, with the backing of a leadership community that understands the demands of your role.

We believe in your potential to lead your program to new heights, and we’re committed to helping you thrive in your new role. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to join a group of like-minded professionals who are as dedicated to their success as you are to yours.

Why Join this program in addition to everything else you are already doing?

• Tailored Support: Access resources specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by new special education administrators 
• Exclusive Coaching: Receive one-on-one coaching to help you develop the skills and strategies needed for effective leadership.
• Peer Network: Connect with fellow new special education administrators across Idaho, share experiences, and build a supportive professional network.  This program is focused solely on those in the first 3 years of SPED leadership, or new to Idaho, or P12. Monthly meetings will be held virtually. 
• Practical Tools: Gain access to practical tools that will help you manage your responsibilities more effectively and with greater ease.