Winter Conference Recap

Submitted by Jami Hodge - IAASE President-Elect

The Twentieth Winter Conference last week was a huge success! The attendance continues to grow, topics are always plentiful and we had more exhibitors than ever before in Springfield. For those of you who missed it…..here’s a recap! We started out Wednesday with a packed house Board meeting including three members of ISBE Executive Staff. Upon the conclusion of the Board meeting, IAASE members stormed the State Capital discussing legislative priorities and the needs of special education across the state. Many of our legislative friends joined us that evening at a Legislative Reception at TJM Consulting. 

Executive Director of Special Education at ISBE, Heather Calomese, addressed the crowd on Day 1 offering support and guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education followed by the introduction of IAASE Officer Candidates by Dr. Frost. Ben Glenn AKA - The Chalk Guy - wowed the crowd with his heartfelt story about growing up with ADHD and his exquisite artwork on a Target bed sheet stretched around a frame built by the one and only - Harlan Gerrish. 

There were so many amazing presenters and session topics that it was difficult to select where to spend your time. Many of the friends of IAASE and sponsors took professional development to an all new level; sharing ideas, providing practical guides, offering support and guidance on the ever changing world of special education. We celebrated upcoming retirements during lunch and set aside time in the afternoon for all IAASE Regions to collaborate and discuss new ideas. A special thank you to Shannon Miller Bellini for organizing a dynamic legislative panel featuring several legislators from across the state. Thursday evening is always packed with fun- the social hour, raffle basket winners and who can forget the “Gus Bus?”

On Friday morning, Dr. Rubenstein welcomed us by providing an update on the continued focus and work of IAASE and all of its members followed by the introduction of Region Awards. The 2019 ISBE Teacher of the Year, Susan Converse, was recognized for her dedication to students with disabilities at Edwardsville High School. Our closing Keynote Speaker, Andre Norman delivered a powerful presentation on recognizing trauma, overcoming adversity, and the power of having a dream. 

The 2019 Winter Conference Legal Panel closed out the event on Friday, discussing hot topics in special education, a year end review of case law, and answering questions from the crowd. Thank you to the many people that work behind scenes to organize and plan and the volunteers that ensure such a successful and incredible event each year. We look forward to another 20 years!