Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education Leadership

Beyond The Classroom: How The MITTIN Project Is Reimagining Independence For Michigan Students

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Independence is more than a goal. It is a skill that can be practiced, refined, and mastered.

In this episode of the MAASE Field Notes Podcast, Executive Director Abby Cypher welcomes guest host Dr. Derek Cooley, Director of Special Education at Godwin Heights, for a deep dive into the MITTIN Project.

This statewide initiative is revolutionizing post secondary outcomes for students with disabilities by providing a free library of innovative digital resources, curricular tools, and professional development.

Derek is joined by a powerhouse panel of leaders who have been at the heart of this work: Dr. Kristine Gullen, MITTIN Project Manager Dr. James Nuse, Director of Special Education at Ionia Public Schools Dr. Lois Vaughan-Hussain, MITTIN PLC Facilitator

In this episode, we explore:

  • Power of Partnership: How MAASE, the Michigan CEC, Great Lakes Reality Labs, and Public Policy Associates joined forces to build a sustainable ecosystem.
  • Innovation in Action: The shift from simple navigation to immersive, web based modules and now sign language integration that allow students to practice daily living and employability skills in a low risk environment. Research and
  • Results: Why the MITTIN model is gaining international attention through peer reviewed journals and how it is being used to bridge the theory to practice gap in rural and urban districts alike.
  • The Statewide PLC: How Michigan educators are moving from isolation to collaboration, sharing lesson plans and best practices that are freely available to every practitioner in the state.

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    Whether you are a veteran administrator or new to the field, this conversation provides a blueprint for how professional learning and digital design can work together to strengthen student outcomes.

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    Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education LeadershipBy Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education