An Opportunity for Michigan School Administrators
The Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education’s (MAASE) Developing Inclusive Leaders program is a powerful professional learning experience tailored specifically for Michigan’s building-level school leaders. Designed to strengthen leadership in special education and inclusive practices, this initiative supports those pursuing or holding a school administrator certificate in Michigan. It equips principals, assistant principals, and deans with the tools and strategies needed to lead schools where every student—especially those with IEPs—can thrive.
Who Should Participate?
By participating in this initiative, building-level leaders will gain critical skills and knowledge to lead inclusive schools. You will also develop the ability to navigate special education policies, create collaborative partnerships, and foster a school culture that values equity and inclusivity.
Participants will:
- Gain critical knowledge of special education systems and law
- Strengthen their capacity to lead inclusive, equity-centered schools
- Build skills to form collaborative, community-driven partnerships
Foster a supportive culture for both students and staff
The MAASE Building Inclusive Leadership program is available in Three Tier Options
The program combines virtual modules, in-person workshops, and synchronous coaching. All materials are hosted on EduPaths, the state’s learning management platform.
- Foundations Tier – $250
- On-demand learning modules
- Digital downloads and resources
- 13 State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs)
- Advancing Tier – $1,200
- All Foundations content
- Guidebooks and reference materials
- Six in-person training events
- Transformation Tier – $5,500
- All Advancing content
- Individualized coaching/mentoring from MASSP or MEMSPA
- Up to 12 graduate credits from Western Michigan University
MDE certificate enhancement on the Administrator Certificate
Enter the Program Today
- Cohort 2 begins September 2025 and runs for two academic years – click for program outline
- Year 1: Monthly on-demand learning modules (2–3 hours each) + three in-person sessions
- Year 2: Three additional in-person sessions + ongoing coaching support
- Participants will engage in approximately 6–10 hours per month
- One-on-one coaching (45–60 minutes/month) from MASSP or MEMSPA
See full schedule here.
MAASE is offering first course free – scan the QR code from here
How to Apply
To learn more about eligibility and the application process, click here to access the full program resource.
The MAASE Building Inclusive Leadership program is presented in partnership with:
- Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE)
- Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP)
- Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association (MEMSPA)
- Western Michigan University
- Michigan Department of Education (MDE)
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ABOUT OPTIMISE
OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years).
The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams collaborate with numerous partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and the legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work involves collaboration with all levels of education to achieve this goal.
OPTIMISE promotes twelve professions within Michigan’s special education field, including steps to reach those professions, degree programs in the state, financial assistance through grants/scholarships, industry support, and a real-time job board featuring jobs in Michigan.
Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.
Go to: OPTIMISE.education
