2026 CASE Conference

From Initiative to Impact: Applied Implementation Science for Special Education Leaders (Room 557)

12 Nov 26
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM

Tracks: Putting Research Into Practice:Evidence for Impact

Speaker(s): Kirra Guard, Assistant Professor, State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego; Megan Garton, Senior Data Associate, Co-Director of the NYSED OSE Technical Assistance Partnership for Data, Cornell University; Imad Zaheer, Assistant Professor, St. John's University

School leaders are often adopting evidence-based practices to improve outcomes for their students. However, despite their hard work, school leaders often do not see the results they hope for, not because these initiatives are ineffective, but because the process for implementing them lacked alignment to what is known about successful implementation. Students with disabilities, and those at risk of poor outcomes, are particularly vulnerable if schools are unable to successfully implement effective practices. This session will provide special education leaders with an opportunity to move from theory of implementation science to practical application in initiatives that are critical to students with disabilities, such as MTSS, PBIS, and intensive interventions. Participants will analyze examples of how schools address essential elements of implementation to identify and correct common mistakes. The session will offer opportunities for reflection on current initiatives in participants’ own settings and actionable next steps for improved outcomes.