Assumption Educator Completes Year-long SPED Fellowship

Assumption Parish Schools Supervisor of Special Education Nellie Brown

Assumption Parish Schools Supervisor of Special Education Nellie Brown recently completed a one-year stint in the Louisiana Department of Education’s Cohort 5 SPED Fellow Academy, which offered comprehensive professional development to 15 aspiring special education leaders across the state.

                  The program included in-person training, coaching and a community of practices that aimed to instill knowledge and skills the next generation of leaders need to lead and sustain change to improve outcomes of students with disabilities.

“Throughout this year-long journey, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to connect and collaborate with some of the most inspiring and exceptionally intelligent special education administrators from multiple parishes,” Brown said. “These meaningful connections and the knowledge gained have deeply enriched my leadership and vision for serving students with exceptionalities.”

Superintendent Dr. John Barthelemy lauded Brown’s “extra-mile” efforts to strengthen her leadership skills and to bring best practices to the district.

“Congratulations to Mrs. Brown for being selected by the state for this honor, and for successfully completing the many workshops and professional projects associated with this fellowship. This a great example of how our educational leaders are going the extra mile to make positive impact on our system,” Dr. Barthelemy said.

                  Brown said the experience has already had a significant impact on her management of the district’s special education department. She has gained knowledge to enhance instructional practices, strengthen support systems, and empower educators to more effectively meet the diverse needs of students.

“Most importantly, the experience has helped me foster more inclusive and equitable learning environments where every student is valued, supported, and given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential,” she said.

Brown was selected for the state fellowship through an application process that prioritized full-time administrators who are leading special education programs in their system.