Global Special Education Associates (GSEA) hosted Indiana’s 6th Annual “Speddy” Awards. The “Night of Champions: Celebrating Excellence in Education,” took place on May 20 at Newfields in Indianapolis.
The evening began with a red carpet reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by a formal dinner and awards ceremony at 6 p.m., hosted by Fox 59 News anchor Rafael Sanchez.
Known as the “Speddy” Awards, this was one of the largest statewide events recognizing excellence among students in special programs. The celebration honored the achievements of educators, administrators, therapists, students and advocates who have made significant contributions to special education and language learning.
“The idea for the Speddy Awards was born out of a simple but powerful truth: the work being done every day to help students with disabilities to have access to the same educational experience as their peers deserves to be seen, celebrated, and elevated,” said Mark Booth, GSEA founder and CEO.
GSEA provides program development and culture-building activities that align with each school district’s mission and vision, according to the official website. They also partner with an array of individuals and organizations in special education to support students.
In Indiana in 2022-23, the National Center for Education Statistics reported that 18 percent of Hoosier students received special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which is higher than the 15% average across the nation.
Booth said educators are working tirelessly to ensure students receiving special education services thrive. While these staff are a smaller percentage of a school’s personnel, they often see some of the biggest behavioral, cognitive, therapeutic and physical challenges. And their work is often unseen.
“GSEA has created a space where the unique and demanding efforts of educators that truly have a special gift are recognized publicly and with dignity,” Booth said.
Their efforts may be even more important for marginalized communities.
“Disproportionately, in the Black community, 1 out of every 5 students is identified with a disability,” Booth said. “We are investing in the educators that are making a difference and helping students experience success.”
The event started six years ago with 40 attendees as a way to highlight the work being done in classrooms across the region. It has now grown into a red-carpet event with over 200 guests. This year, 57 educators were nominated.
This year’s program featured remarks from leaders in the field of special education, presentations and recognition of award recipients who are driving innovation and inclusivity in schools.
“These individuals work tirelessly to ensure that students with disabilities and those in specialized programs are not only supported but truly empowered to thrive,” Booth said.
“When we recognize people in special education, we send a powerful message: that excellence comes in many forms, and that every student and every educator matters,” Booth said.
Two students were among the evening’s top honorees. The Dare to Dream Award was given to Ruby Mwuara of Liberty Grove School and Edmund Reese of Purdue Polytechnic High School.
Charlene Guthrie, founder of Charlene’s Angels, an organization dedicated to supporting the needs of adults with disabilities, won the Lifetime Career Achievement Award.
GSEA is a national organization dedicated to advancing education for students with disabilities through advocacy, training and support. Booth is widely recognized as a leading expert in special education, known for his work in curriculum design, leadership development and inclusive programming across diverse school settings.
For more information on GSEA, visit bfglobalassociates.com.
