2026 CASE Conference

From Programs to People: Operationalizing a Student-Needs-Based Model and Unsiloing Special Education (Room Ballroom E)

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

Tracks: Putting Research Into Practice:Evidence for Impact

Speaker(s): Leigh Coradetti, Director of Special Education, Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123; Amanda Bencik, Principal, Hometown Elementary (Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123)

Many school districts continue to rely on legacy "programmatic" models—such as resource or self-contained rooms—that inadvertently silo special education services and restrict inclusive practices. This 60-minute interactive breakout session, led by district leaders from Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123, provides a practical roadmap for transitioning from these rigid programs to a flexible, student-needs-based system. Participants will engage in systems mapping and case study analysis to identify the structural and cultural barriers that impede inclusion in their specific contexts. By blending instructional leadership with change management strategies, attendees will learn to apply a needs-based decision-making framework to real-world scenarios. The session concludes with the development of a personalized, 30-day action step, equipping leaders with the concrete tools necessary to begin unsiloing services and improving equitable outcomes for all students.