June 3, 2020
Dear Colleagues,
The Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) is dedicated to the enhancement of the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of each individual in society and we reaffirm these commitments and beliefs as leaders in the field of special education today. We recognize, however, that beliefs and commitments are not enough and, as an organization, we believe the systemic conditions and underlying factors including institutional racism resulting in the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor and many other untold victims require immediate actions to redress the harms caused. Our country is in the midst of two national crises – the COVID-19 pandemic and the racial unrest. Both of these crises are disproportionately impacting communities and individuals of color across our country.
We can and must do more. CASE commits to working with its members across the country to strengthen our systems, engage in difficult conversations, and develop resources to bring about meaningful, positive change so the civil rights of everyone, and in particular, those who have been marginalized in society, are honored. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” CASE will engage in a planning process to ensure our policies and positions are inclusive. We will also focus on strategies to increase the representation of people of color in leadership roles in special education across the country. We will consider actions and mindsets that center equity, inclusion, respect, collaboration, deep listening, and unity in a way that brings us all together toward better outcomes. Members or others with specific ideas about how to undertake this important work should contact Phyllis Wolfram at pwolfram@nullcasecec.org or our President, Erin Maguire at emaguire@nullewsd.org.
In partnership,
Erin Maguire, President
Dr. Mike Asip, Unit Development Chair
Dr. Pam Baker, Product Committee Chair
Dr. Mary Lynn Boscardin, Journal Editor
Dr. Julie Bost, Membership Committee Chair
Eric Hoppstock, Treasurer
Dr. Adam Leckie, Publications Chair
Myrna Mandlawitz, Legislative Consultant
Kindel Mason, President-Elect
Gary Myrah, Past-President
Heath Peine, Professional Development Chair
Dr. Kevin Rubenstein, Policy and Legislative Chair
Dr. Gina Scala, Research Chair
Greta Stanfield, Secretary
Carrie Turner, Technology & Communications Chair
Phyllis Wolfram, Executive Director
About CASE
CASE, The Council of Administrators of Special Education, is the largest division of the Council for Exceptional Children. With close to 4900 members, it is the professional organization of choice for special education administrators across the country. CASE’s mission is to provide leadership and support to members by shaping policies and practices that impact the quality of education. Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and information expressed in this statement by CASE may not reflect the official policies or positions of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). CONTACT: Phyllis Wolfram at (417)-427-7720