Overview

The California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), in partnership with the California Department of Education (CDE), the State Board of Education (SBE), and California’s System of Support, is launching the Special Education Leadership Academy. This initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of special education leaders across the state through professional learning, collaboration, and practical tools that support high-quality instruction and services for students with disabilities.

The Academy offers a year-long series of sessions focused on leadership development, improvement science, and systems alignment. Participants will engage in reflective practice, explore research-based strategies, and access resources that foster equitable outcomes for all students.

Core Topics

• Fiscal Management
• Student Behavior Support
• Strengthening Family Partnerships
• Special Education Policies and Best Practices
• And additional topics identified by the field

Upcoming Sessions

The Academy runs throughout the 2025–2026 school year in a series of 90-minute online sessions, with potential in-person gatherings determined by participant input.

• Admin Designee Training – September 19, 2025
• Session dates: August 15, 2025 | September 19, 2025 | October 17, 2025 | November 21, 2025 | January 16, 2026 | February 27, 2026 | March 20, 2026 | April 17, 2026 | May 15, 2026

If you are interested in future cohorts, please check back for updates or reach out directly with questions.

If you have any questions, please contact Kristen Brooks, CCEE Strategist at [email protected].