DISES Distinguished International Teacher Award
The Division of International Special Education and Services (DISES) seeks nominations for an award to recognize a professional who has made a significant educational impact as an International Educator. The award recognizes an individual whose service has positively impacted the lives of students with disabilities while exemplifying leadership, determination, and perseverance. Recognized work/service may include incorporation of virtual instruction to increase access for students with disabilities, creation of program/activities to increase engagement, and/or other innovative strategies to reach students and/or families of children with disabilities. This award is open to all DISES members who serve children and youth with disabilities.
Award Details:
The Division of International Special Education and Services (DISES) seeks nominations for an award to recognize a professional who has made a significant educational impact as an International Educator. The award recognizes an individual whose service has positively impacted the lives of students with disabilities while exemplifying leadership, determination, and perseverance. Recognized work/service may include incorporation of virtual instruction to increase access for students with disabilities, creation of program/activities to increase engagement, and/or other innovative strategies to reach students and/or families of children with disabilities. This award is open to all DISES members who serve children and youth with disabilities.
The Awards Committee will consider the following criteria:
- Significant/impactful contribution serving children and youth with disabilities
- Exemplary leadership, determination, and perseverance
- Innovative and meaningful techniques and/or strategies
Nominations are sought across education and related service providers. Self nominations are welcome. Applicants must be current members of DISES .
The nomination packet should include the following information:
- A Letter of Nomination (This may include a summary of nominee activities which addresses the following areas: description of work/service, impact of work on families and/or students with disabilities, leadership demonstrated, explanation of activities/effort/initiative).
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae (please provide an English translation if applicable)
- Contact information for two references (name, position, email addresses, phone number)
- Professional headshot photo
| 2024 |
Acer Pitas
Acer Pitas is a dedicated educator known for going above and beyond to secure funding for quality educational materials for their students. Their service at the state level and ongoing advocacy for under-resourced students with disabilities is commendable. Acer's efforts have led to tangible improvements, as evidenced by their students' statement, "Our classroom is changing." They embody the change that students need and that every teacher can aspire to be. DISES is proud of Acer's accomplishments and deeply appreciates their commitment to the education of students with disabilities. |
| 2023 |
Dr. Aleksandra Ristić
Aleksandra studied special education at the University of Education Ljubljana, Slovenia. During her PhD studies, she was a special education teacher in Kindergarten Vrhnika. For 2 years she designed and evaluated individual language skills and motor disorder programs for children ages 3-5. From 2014-2016 she had the opportunity to experience international special education. She completed research with the University of Minho in Braga, Portugal, as well as Temple University in Philadelphia, USA.
Aleksandra completed her doctoral thesis in 2019, “The Helping Process Based on the Needs of Families with Children with Special Needs. The purpose of this research is to improve social inclusion of families that have special needs family members. Currently Aleksandra works in a primary school as a special education teacher. She is also a student of master degree social work with families at University of Social Work, Ljubljana, Slovenia. From 2014 on, Aleksandra has been a part of the DISES team. |
| 2020 |
Beckett Haight
Beckett Haight serves as a Learning Support Teacher as well as the English Language Learner Coordinator at the Canguu Community School in Bali, Indonesia. Beckett holds a Master's Degree in special education as well as in Educational Technology. He has been involved in the field for 20+ years as a volunteer, teacher and teacher assistant. Additionally, it is noted that Beckett is a National Board Certified Teacher in the area of Exceptional Needs. |
| 2018 | Kelly Allen Clark (UNCC) |
| 2016 | 2016 Evgenia Dimitrova-Mineva (Bulgaria) |