New Leaders Cohort
2023-24 Registration Coming Soon!
MASE New Leaders’ Training is a series of professional development sessions that provide opportunities for:
  • newly employed Minnesota special education directors to explore the knowledge and skills needed for a successful first year
  • mid-level leaders to enhance leadership skills either in preparation for advancement in leadership or for general skill development
  • “newer” leaders who wish to refresh their training.
Participants have an opportunity to meet other new leaders, experienced colleagues, state department staff, and other resource people from the special education community. Topics include federal and state special education law, finance and budgeting, state reporting, program topics, and leadership. Continuing education credits are awarded.In October, January, March, and May, the entire group will meet from 9 am – 2:30 pm and the new Directors of Record will meet for additional ninety minutes (2:30 pm – 4 pm) to explore topics of particular interest to directors.
In addition, we will convene new Directors of Record for virtual afternoon meetings (2:30 – 4 pm) during November, February, and April. Topics will be generated by the group.
Thank you to our cohort leaders/facilitators: 
  • Amy Ernst, Director of Special Education, Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools
  • Melanie Kray, Executive Director of Special Services, SW Metro Intermediate District 288-06
  • Holle Spessard, Director - Region 9, SC Service Cooperative
MN Department of Education
Past Cohort Materials - Click Here!