Amanda Reed, director of the Regional Services and Education Center’s (RSEC) Vista Learning Center program, has been named a regional “Emerging Special Education Leader” by the Association of Special Education Administrators (NHASEA). She was formally recognized during a ceremony on Zoom on June 12 for her work in the field of special education administration.
She started at the RSEC Academy as a middle teacher in 2014. When Vista was launched in 2018, she served as a special education teacher and moved into the director role a year later. Reed is working towards becoming a special education administrator and recently earned her master’s degree in Curriculum Instruction with a concentration in Educational Leadership.
“Through reading, research and coursework, Amanda’s love of teaching shines through constantly as she expands her own knowledge of education and teaching, and then eagerly shares this knowledge with her educational team and students. We’re so proud of her gaining this recognition and know it will open even more doors for her as she continues to support children and families in and out of the classroom,” said Judy Koch, executive director of RSEC.
Criteria to consider in nominating an Emerging Special Education Leader are:
- Currently works in the field of special education (less than five years)
- Demonstrates potential and has a general interest in becoming a special education administrator
- Is a newly certified special education administrator with less than five years on the job
- Applicant may have experience with varied roles in the district
- Inquisitive lifelong learner
- Positive and productive
- Family/community engagement
- Strong communication, facilitation and interpersonal skills
“This award not only recognizes you for your leadership skills, but also for the countless hours and dedication you have provided to the field of special education,” said NHASEA Executive Director Jane Bergeron-Beaulieu in a letter of congratulations.
The Vista Learning Center program teaches students, so they increase their academic knowledge in parallel with social thinking skills that are essential to navigating the ever-present demands in life. The learning approach integrates parents, students, school staff and other service providers, to create a community of trust, respect and understanding.
