Funded Projects

Preparing the Next Generation of Culturally Responsive Leaders for the Administration of Special Education (2021-present). Project Director: Mary Lynn Boscardin, Ph.D. | Project Co-Director: John Hintze, Ph.D.

The mission of NextGen is to develop highly qualified and effective special education administrators whose leadership in fostering accountability and mobilizing organizational change supports the provisions for highly qualified and effective personnel and for the successful learning of all students incorporated in IDEA 2004.

The significance of this NextGen administration of special education grant lies in the preparation of highly qualified and effective future administrators and leaders and future IHE faculty.

Special education administrators are in positions of influence to ensure students are appropriately referred for special education and that every student with a disability receives individualized services and supports from highly qualified and effective teachers. Administrative leadership is second only to classroom instruction as a variable that contributes to what students learn at school. State and local agencies need leadership personnel prepared at the graduate level to fill special education and early intervention administrator positions. These administrators supervise and evaluate the implementation of evidence-based instructional programs to make sure State or local agencies are meeting the needs of children with disabilities. Administrators also ensure schools and programs meet Federal, State, and local requirements for special education, early intervention, and related services.

• Visit the NextGen website.

For more information please contact:

• Email: umcec@umass.edu
• Phone: 413-545-1101