2026 CASE Conference

Leading for Access, High Expectations, and Inclusion for Students with Disabilities (Room 551 B)

11 Nov 26
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Tracks: Advancing Equity: Practices for All Learners

Speaker(s): Dr. Nora Sugai, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Chair, Council of Administrators of Special Education; Dr. Sheila Bailey, Executive Director, Virginia Council of Administrators of Special Education (VCASE); Dr. Frederick Abernathy, Former Director of Special Education, Colbert County Schools; Dr. Catrina Dorsey, Executive Director of Elementary Special Education, East Aurora School District; Bridgette Gordon-Hickey, Deputy Executive Director, LEARN

This session equips special education leaders to identify and address systemic barriers that impact the identification, programming, and service delivery for students with disabilities. Participants will examine how factors such as disability, race, language, socio-economic status, and cultural background intersect to create disparities in educational opportunities. Through real-world scenarios and reflective practice, candidates will explore how to lead with fairness, communicate with cultural and linguistic responsiveness, and promote environments rooted in access, belonging, and high expectations. Emphasizing inclusive leadership and democratic values, this session prepares administrators to cultivate trust, advocacy, and meaningful partnerships with families, educators, and communities.