Reaching out to each and every student is a concern of all educators. One group of educators for whom this can at times be an extra challenge – as well as an extra joy – are those who work in the field of special education. Mildred Browne, assistant superintendent of Pupil Services and Special Education for the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, is one of the best in the field. She is ACSA’s 2011 Special Education Administrator of the Year.
As a leader of curriculum, personnel, special programs and student services, Diane Graziani-Orton, retired deputy superintendent for Exeter Union School District, operates under ACSA's mission to “ensure all students have the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel.” For her outstanding efforts, she has been recognized as ACSA’s 2011 Pupil Personnel Administrator of the Year.
Every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, and student services and special education administrators make that happen. Not every child in California is the same, and these administrators help ensure every child has what he or she needs to succeed in school and in life. Issues such as the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, individual education plans, autism, discipline, health, safety, and many others all play together to ensure every child counts, regardless of disability, challenges or special needs.
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