NEW DIRECTORS' NETWORK (NDN)

Join the New Directors' Network!

The New Directors' Network is a dynamic support series designed specifically for new professionals in special education leadership. These one-hour virtual sessions, held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Central Time) on select dates, provide an opportunity to:

Connect with fellow new directors across the country
Share strategies, challenges, and solutions
Build a supportive professional network
Gain insights into effective leadership practices

FREE MEMBER BENEFIT!! Not a CASE Member? JOIN HERE

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Your first years of leadership don't have to be spent navigating alone.

The CASE New Directors Network is designed to support professionals in their first years as special education directors by providing meaningful connections, practical resources, and ongoing guidance from experienced leaders across the country. The New Directors Network offers a welcoming community where directors can ask questions, share experiences, learn from peers, and gain insights from seasoned professionals who understand the unique demands of special education leadership.

What's New for 2026–2027

The 2026–2027 CASE New Directors Network has been redesigned to provide more intentional opportunities for learning, collaboration, and relationship building throughout the year.

Monthly Networking Meetings

Participate in regularly scheduled virtual networking meetings where directors can connect with colleagues from across the country. These interactive sessions focus on timely topics, emerging challenges, and practical solutions while providing a trusted space for open discussion, idea sharing, and problem-solving.

Mentorship Program

Every leadership journey benefits from guidance. This pairs participating directors with experienced special education leaders who serve as trusted mentors throughout the year. Mentors provide encouragement, share practical advice, offer perspective on complex situations, and help new directors build confidence as they grow in their leadership roles.

Mentors Include:

Monica Waltman (SD)
Dr. Melissa Denton (RI)
Dr. Mary Jane Boynton (VA)
Dr. Staci Mathes (MO)
Ginny Gilbert (MO)
Sherry Davis (MO)
Tarin Kendrick (IL)
Nicole White (MD)
Kristin Rodman (IN)
Yvette Gorevitch (CN)

A Community of Support

Perhaps the greatest benefit of the Network is knowing you are not alone. Participants become part of a national network of leaders committed to supporting one another, celebrating successes, and navigating challenges together.

Who Should Participate?

The CASE New Directors Network is designed for professionals who are:

New to the role of special education director or administrator
Transitioning into district-level special education leadership
Seeking guidance from experienced colleagues
Looking to expand their professional network and leadership capacity

Whether you are beginning your first year or continuing to build confidence in your leadership role, the CASE New Directors Network provides the connections, knowledge, and support you need to thrive.

2026-2027 Meeting Dates

**2026-2027**
Date	Title	Description	Standard	Facilitator
Aug 6, 2026	Starting Strong	Join us for a discussion around first-year priorities, building relationships, establishing credibility, and creating a support network.	1, 5, & 6	Dr. Zabrina Cannady
Sept 3, 2026	Knowing Your System	Join us for a discussion around policies and procedures, understanding district structure, and finding your data.	2 & 6	Dr. Mary Kay Berry
Oct 1, 2026	Building and Leading Teams	Join us for a discussion around supervising staff, having difficult conversations, and creating a culture of accountability.	5 & 7	Sherry Davis
Nov 5, 2026	Data Informed Decision Making	Join us for a discussion around monitoring systems, conducting program evaluations, and using data strategically.	3 & 4	Nicole White
Dec 3, 2026	Mid-Year Reflection	Join us for a mid-year reflection where we will discuss managing workload, preventing burnout, and adjusting priorities.	2 & 5
Jan 7, 2027	Budgeting, Staffing, and Resource Allocations	Join us for a discussion around budget development, staffing projections, and resource allocation.	5
Feb 4, 2027	Communication and Conflict	Join us for a discussion around crucial conversations, stakeholder engagement, and communicating with your superintendent and board.	6
Mar 4, 2027	Instructional Leadership	Join us for a discussion around inclusive practices, improving outcomes, and monitoring instruction.	4 & 7
Apr 1, 2027	Looking Ahead	Join us for a discussion around ESY, transition planning, and strategically prioritizing for next year.	1 & 3
May 6, 2027	Reflecting and Celebrating	Join us as we talk through biggest lessons learned, greatest successes, and what you wish you knew one year ago.	1 & 4

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