Brownwood ISD’s Central Office was buzzing last Thursday with news that Alice Cox had been selected as the Region XV TCASE (Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education) Director of the Year.  Having served Brownwood ISD for 8 years in the position, Alice proved to be an ideal candidate for the nomination. 

“I have had the privilege of working with her [Cox] for three years,” stated Assistant BISD Superintendent Liesa Land in a letter supporting the nomination.  “I have been in education for 28 years and this lady is the most amazing special education director I have ever worked with.”

The guidelines for the annual award require the nominee to have served for a minimum of three years, and be an active member of TCASE. Some of the criteria considered for those selected include unique and outstanding features of the nominee’s special education program, the impact of the program on students, the district, the community, leadership, professional development and involvement of the nominee.

According to the Official Nomination Form for 2011-2012, the award recognizes a Special Education Director who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in providing services to students with disabilities and whose work reflects the highest professional and ethical standards.

 “Proactive and not reactive is Alice’s motto.  She tries to head off issues before they arise,” Land said.  “If an issue does arise, she quickly intervenes and meets with teachers, principals, and parents as needed in a timely manner.”

Cox, who actively participates in organizations such as TCASE and CESD (Council for Educators for Students with Disabilities), also has organized or facilitated programs such as bowling for Life Skills Students, summer camp for students with auditory impairments, and Summer Reading and Math Rodeo, all of which are centered around students with disabilities.  She also serves as Co-Chairperson for the Brown County Consortium, a group composed of school district members, Child Placing Agencies, and Department of Family Protective Services.

The honor, which also nominates her at the state level, was a complete surprise to Cox who learned of the award while attending a monthly meeting.

“I was totally overwhelmed and surprised,” Cox said.  “It was a very emotional moment and I’m honored.  If you surround yourself with great people it makes you look good. It’s wonderful to be a part of Brownwood ISD.”