Teachers of students with disabilities take on multiple leadership roles beyond instruction, often from their first day on the job. These roles include managing classrooms, coordinating with colleagues, supervising educational assistants, maintaining home–school communication, and staying current with research and best practices, among others. This session introduces 12 essential professional activities that support instructional quality and teacher growth. For each area, participants will explore definitions, supporting research, self-assessment tools, and strategies for professional development. The session will also address both peer—teacher to teacher—and administrative supports to foster sustainable and impactful teacher leadership.
Following this workshop, participants will be able to:
Target Audience:
Dr. Jordan Shurr is a Professor of Special and Inclusive Education in the Faculty of Education at Queen’s University. His teaching, mentorship, and research focus on curricular interventions and supports for students with extensive support needs and the professional preparation of special educators. He has authored books, book chapters, and numerous peer-reviewed studies examining inclusive education, teacher training, and support for students with intellectual disability, autism and other developmental disabilities.
Dr. Shurr is the founding director of the ADD*Ed (Autism and Developmental Disabilities) Research Group, Associate Editor of Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, and Executive Director of the Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities of the Council for Exceptional Children. His collaborative work has been presented internationally across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Previously, Dr. Shurr served as Associate Professor at Central Michigan University, a preschool and elementary special education teacher, an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) consultant, and a camp inclusion coordinator. He has been recognized with multiple teaching and publication awards, including the Early Career Award from the Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities. His leadership, scholarship, and service reflect a commitment to advancing inclusive education and improving outcomes for students with disabilities worldwide.
Course Code: JS40725
Topic: Special Education Teacher Leadership and Professional Development for Improved Instructional Practice
Presenter(s): Professor Jordan Shurr, Queen's University
Date(s): 8 April 2026, Wednesday
Time: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
Venue: Orchard Hotel
Closing Date: 21 November 2025, Friday
Workshop Fee: S$300.00 per participant, and the fee is subject to GST.
Please get in touch with Joseph Loy by email at joseph@pai.sg or tel: 6363 0330 if you require further information.
