Special Education
Department Chair's Welcome
Welcome to the Special Education Program at Jackson State University. On behalf of the faculty and staff, I want you to know that we are pleased that you have made the decision to become a special educator and to receive your professional preparation from us. We are also pleased to have you join a cadre of professionals, from across the country, dedicated to providing quality services to students with disabilities and their families. We have planned many experiences to help shape your views about teaching and advocating for students who have disabilities. It is also intended that you gain an understanding of the roles that family members and many other professionals share in the process of ensuring an appropriate education for students with disabilities.
The Special Education Program at Jackson State University is a community of dedicated scholars, researchers, professors, practitioners and staff who work together to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities and their families. We are committed to mentoring you to become a highly qualified professional. It is our shared goal to develop and disseminate essential skills, knowledge, and values through research, teaching and service. We pride ourselves on being supportive and available to students.
Faculty and staff in the Special Education Program support students in their development to become responsive practitioners with the following dispositions:
- Value persons with disabilities and their families
- Respect diverse views, contributions and achievements
- Promote education as a fundamental human endeavor and social right
- Enhance the quality of life of persons with disabilities and their families
- Employ new technologies and methods to find meaningful solutions
- Implement best practices in education and service delivery
- Collaborate across multiple levels to address complex challenges
- Participate in policies and practices that empower people with disabilities
- Influence professional and civic communities
I look forward to meeting you in person and hearing about your career aspirations. Please feel free to visit with me in person, by telephone or by email. I wish you the very best in your journey to become an educator and leader in the field of special education.
Dr. Deidre L. Wheaton
Associate Professor and Interim Department Chair of Educational, Multicultural, and Exceptional Studies
Address: P.O. Box 17175, Jackson, MS 39217
Office Location: Room 217-N College of Education (Educational Leadership Suite)
Office Phone: 601-979-1164
Special Education
