An association for leadership dev., collaboration, & advocacy. Our members shape policies & practices to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Michigan
Joined June 2013
Did you know planning for Summer Institute starts a full year in advance? Hear how the committee connected with keynote speaker Jimmy Casas to build a customized experience for our attendees. #SpecialEducation #EdLeadership #MAASE
48
Coming to Summer Institute without a built in team? MAASE leaders and staff are there to welcome you and get you connected. Learn what to expect at your first conference by catching the full episode of Field Notes! #SpecialEducation #EdLeadership #MAASE
1
68
"Everyone gets to get out of it what they want to get out of it because there are so many opportunities." Summer Institute Chair Renee Thelen highlights the packed 2026 agenda and expanded presence from state leaders. #SpecialEducation #EdLeadership #MAASE
66
"You're not only part of the learning: you're really joining a community." Summer Institute Committee Chair Renee Thelen breaks down what keeps special ed leaders coming back year after year. #SpecialEducation #EdLeadership #MAASE
58
The latest episode of Field Notes is live! We are dropping this episode a few days early so you have plenty of time to prepare for the 2026 MAASE Summer Institute. In this ultimate "Know Before You Go" guide, incoming MAASE President Tina Lawson and Summer Institute Committee C
1
192
With recent federal proposals to remove IDEA from the Department of Education, protecting its civil rights foundation is critical. IDEA is an education law designed to build bridges, not separate silos. Because of this urgent topic, and ahead of the holiday, we are re-releasing
28
How does a statewide association achieve 100% of its five year goals without stepping on toes? In this highlight from the latest episode of the Field Notes Podcast, Executive Director Abby Cypher explains the precise strategy behind the growth of MAASE. Abby shares how looking
27
Happy first Friday of June! A brand new episode of the Field Notes Podcast is now live. In Episode 10, The Next Chapter: Shaping the Future of Special Education Leadership, MAASE Executive Director Abby Cypher sits down with with Ben Hicks, MAASE Associate Executive Director of
30
The uncertainty over future state funding for Project SEARCH comes as education and business groups say high school graduates need more skills when they leave high school. Parker Wilcox graduated from Project SEARCH in 2020. He now works as a dishwasher bridgemi.com/talent-educatio…
26
Calling all Michigan K-12 educators! Your voice matters in shaping AI's role in schools! MAASE wants your voice included in the third annual Statewide AI Integration Survey. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or just getting started, we want to hear about yo insights.michiganvirtual.org…
31
Support Student Safety Where It Starts. MAASE’s FREE Regional Paraeducator Transportation Trainings are designed for bus attendants and transportation staff who support students every day. Participants will receive: ✔️ Practical safety and student support strategies ✔️ 5 hours
28
What does it mean to truly put students first? In our latest Field Notes episode, Abby Cypher sits down with MI Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko to talk leadership, collaboration, and the future of education in Michigan. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! #MAASE4ALL
1
37
Right now in Michigan, something incredibly important is at risk. This program changes lives. It gives students the chance to build confidence, gain independence, and step into their communities as working adults with purpose. Take action today. maase.org/support-project-se…
43
What does it look like when a business finds a shared heart? In this highlight from the Field Notes Podcast, Brendan Birchmeier shares the unexpected ways Project SEARCH has strengthened the culture at Meijer. Beyond providing jobs, the program has acted as a bridge, connecting
1
46
What happens when a student moves beyond just dipping a toe into the workforce? In this highlight from the Field Notes Podcast, Marianne Owens discusses the decision to enroll her son, Mitchell, in Project SEARCH. For Mitchell, the key was full immersion. This program is design
48
Making its debut tomorrow on the Field Notes Podcast, guest host Sarah Winslow sits down with Project SEARCH co founder Susie Rutkowski and a panel of Michigan leaders. Susie shares the incredible news that Michigan programs are currently performing 13 points above the national
1
32
In case you missed it, this month’s Field Notes episode is live and focused on reimagining independence. Beyond the Classroom: How the MITTIN Project Is Reimagining Independence for Michigan Students. youtube.com/watch?v=Ppz3Ieyy…
56