Dr. Joanne Lane, Ed.D. | Special Education Systems Consultant · Author · Speaker

Preparing Better Leaders.

Building Stronger Schools.

Special Education Has a Department.

Its Implementation Takes a Leadership System.

Special education doesn't operate in isolation. Decisions made across a school or district—from staffing and scheduling to curriculum, technology, and operations—can directly affect how students receive services and how districts meet their legal obligations. While administrators have distinct roles and responsibilities, their decisions are often interconnected.

Dr. Joanne Lane helps aspiring and practicing administrators connect the dots between policy, practice, and their everyday responsibilities—challenging siloed thinking and building the knowledge and skills to lead with clarity and confidence.

Different Responsibilities. Distinct Authority. Connected Leadership.

A Practical Roadmap for School Leaders

The Principal's Special Education Calendar takes the guesswork out of one of school leadership's most complex responsibilities.

Organized around the school year, this month-by-month guide helps principals anticipate critical deadlines, navigate legal requirements, and make informed decisions with confidence.

More than a reference book, it's a hands-on resource for building stronger, more inclusive schools.

  • “If a student’s IEP isn’t followed, what should I have done differently? Am I, my school, and my school district liable for harm? To prevent these fears and scenarios from becoming your reality, read this book.”

    Peter W. D. Wright | Attorney at Law

  • “Dr. Lane seamlessly connects special education law with the realities of everyday school operations, highlighting common areas of neglect while helping educators strengthen preparation, communication and support for students with special needs.”

    Jan P. Hammond, Ed.D. | Professor Emerita, State University of New York at New Paltz

  • “A practical resource for all education leaders—not just special education specialists. The format is ideal, addressing the issues and responsibilities school leaders encounter throughout the year.”

    Rose Rudnitski, Ed.D. | Professor & Program Director in Educational Leadership, Mercy University

  • “An easy-to-follow guide that gives building leaders the big picture—combining special education benchmarks with practical budgetary, personnel and programmatic guidance while helping general and special education work together for the benefit of all students.”

    Rebecca Green | Executive Director of Educational Resources, Dutchess BOCES

  • “An indispensable resource for school leaders. This practical, month-by-month guide provides the knowledge and strategies principals need to build consistency, equity and compliance in special education.”

    Paula C. Perez, Ed.D. | Former Principal & Director of Elementary Education, Kingston City Schools

Speaking & Development


Guest Speaking & Lectures

Keynotes, panel discussions, and tailored presentations for aspiring and practicing school leaders.


Professional Development Workshops

Interactive learning experiences that connect special education policy with real-world challenges, helping administrators translate complex requirements into effective everyday practices.

Get in Touch

Reach out to schedule a consultation or plan a speaking engagement.