2026 CASE Conference

Michelle Rayson
Compliance & Technical Support Officer
Harris County Department of Education


Michelle Rayson is a dedicated special educator with 24 years of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs and championing inclusive, student-centered practices. Throughout her career, she has taught Life Skills, Resource, and Adaptive Behavior programs, building a reputation for compassion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to helping every learner grow. Her classroom work has always centered on meeting students where they are—celebrating strengths, nurturing independence, and creating environments where students feel safe, capable, and valued. Michelle’s ability to design individualized supports and collaborate effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams has made her a trusted advocate for students with disabilities. In addition to her work as a teacher, Michelle has served as a Department Chair for Special Education, guiding instructional teams, supporting compliance, and strengthening campus-wide systems that ensure students receive high-quality services. Her leadership has been marked by mentorship, thoughtful problem-solving, and a deep understanding of both instructional and regulatory needs. Michelle now serves as a Compliance & Technical Support Officer for the Harris County Department of Education Special Schools Division, where she supports campuses in implementing effective practices and maintaining program fidelity. In this role, she blends her extensive classroom experience with her expertise in special education law, documentation, and program oversight—helping schools operate with both excellence and integrity. Across every chapter of her career, Michelle has remained grounded in her belief that all students deserve opportunities to thrive. Her work continues to shape classrooms, support educators, and uplift the students and families she serves.

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