Bridging Possiblity. Igniting Change.

Strengthening Independence.

This month’s newsletter highlights the power of partnership, innovation, and leadership in strengthening independence for Michigan students. Across two major statewide conferences: the Michigan Transition Services Association (MTSA) and the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC), MITTIN proudly stood alongside educators, administrators, families, and partners committed to expanding opportunity and enhancing transition practices. From sponsoring and facilitating dynamic breakout sessions to hosting at-the-elbow resource booths and engaging in meaningful dialogue, MITTIN’s presence reflected a clear and consistent mission: advancing high-quality transition practices while amplifying educator voice across Michigan.

We are also proud to celebrate one of Michigan’s outstanding leaders in transition services. Our own MITTIN Committee member, Sarah Winslow is the recipient of the prestigious C. David Anderson Award which was presented by MTSA. Congratulations, Sarah!

MITTIN was also honored to be featured in the February episode of MAASE’s Field Notes podcast, 'Beyond the Classroom: How the MITTIN Project is Reimagining Independence for Michigan Students.' Executive Director Abby Cypher, joined by me, as guest host and a panel of MITTIN leaders, explores how independence is not just a goal, it is a skill that can be practiced, refined, and mastered. The episode offers practical ideas and a blueprint for turning innovation into impact. You can listen with the link below.

Together, we are bridging possibility, igniting change, celebrating leadership, and reimagining independence: one partnership, one conversation, and one student at a time.

If you are interested in learning more about MITTIN professional development opportunities you can scan the QR code at the end of this memo or contact our project manager, Kristine Gullen, at kristinegullen@maase.org.

Best Regards,

Dr. Derek Cooley,

MITTIN Committee Chair

MITTIN proudly celebrates Sarah Winslow, recipient of the C. David Anderson Award, presented by the Michigan Transition Services Association. This honor recognizes a leader who goes above and beyond in promoting transition services through leadership, advocacy, and innovation.

For more than two decades, Sarah has transformed outcomes for students with disabilities across Michigan. From expanding competitive employment opportunities as the Statewide Director of Project SEARCH, to strengthening transition resources by serving as a MITTIN Committee member, her work has created real pathways to independence and opportunity.

 Michigan Council for Exception Children - 2026 Conference

February’s Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC) 2026 Conference truly lived up to its theme, 'Igniting Change Together.' The strong and collaborative partnership between MITTIN and MCEC was evident throughout the event.

MITTIN was proud to serve as a conference sponsor, host an at-the-elbow resource booth, and facilitate a wide range of engaging breakout sessions. Attendees had opportunities to explore MITTIN’s latest research, assistive technology supports, innovative digital tools, applications for transition planning, and powerful personal stories demonstrating real-world impact. There was truly something for everyone.

We extend our sincere gratitude to MCEC, the educators, parents, and students who shared their MITTIN experiences and impact stories. Your voices continue to inspire and drive meaningful change.

Breakout Sessions included:



Virtual to Vital: VR Resources that Build Independence

• By: Kyra Siverly, Shannon DeLora & Kristine Gullen

Quest for Independence: AT + VR Edition

• By: Pam Cunningham & Kristine Gullen

The MITTIN + AI Advantage: Elevating the Transition Consideration Page for Real Student Impact

• By: Jessica Lucke & Shannon Swimmer

Teaching Essential Life Skills to Students with Disabilities via a Michigan-Made VR Program: A Synthesis of MITTIN Findings

• By: Laura Norwine

Tech Fued: The Ultimate Inclusive Technology Showdown

• By: Barry Aherne, Amber Wade & Pamela Cunningham

Together we are igniting change.

 MTSA Conference

MITTIN was proud to sponsor and participate in the Michigan Transition Services Association (MTSA) 2026 Conference. This year’s theme, “Bridging Possibility. Empowering the Future,” reflects a shared commitment to creating inclusive pathways and expanding opportunities for learners with disabilities — a perfect alignment with MITTIN’s dedication to advancing high-quality transition practices and strengthening educator leadership across Michigan.

We were excited to meet so many educators who were already using MITTIN. The conference also provided valuable opportunities to connect with new educators, administrators, and partners from across the state who are committed to improving outcomes for students with disabilities. Through both sponsorship and active engagement, MITTIN contributed to important conversations focused on innovation, collaboration, and preparing students for real-world success.

MITTIN’s presence at both the MCEC and MTSA conferences reflects its ongoing commitment to growing strong partnerships, amplifying educator voice, and fostering continuous learning within Michigan’s special education and transition community.

Field Notes Podcast

This month's Field Notes episode is focused on reimagining independence. Beyond the Classroom: How the MITTIN Project is Reimagining Independcence for Michigan Students. Independence is not just a goal. It is a skill that can be practiced, refined and mastered.

Executive Director Abby Cypher is joined by guest host Dr. Derek Cooley and a powerhouse panel of MITTIN leaders to explore how this statewide intiative is transforming postsecondary outcomes for students with disabilities through innovative digital tools,, professional learning and collaboration.

From immersive web-based modules and future sign language integration, to statewide PLCs that are breaking down educator isolation, this episode is packed with ideas educators can use right away. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned leaders, this conversation offers a blueprint for turning innovation into impact.

Virtual Learning Lab

We are excited to introduce our newest professional development series: MITTIN's Virtual Learning Lab which is scheduled on Mondays throughout the year. These drop-in online sessions are designed for new users -- educators, parents and agency personnel who support learners in developing independent living skills. Participants will learn how to access and explore MITTIN's innovative digital modules, lesson plans and curricular resources.

Our next MITTIN Monday is scheduled to meet by ZOOM @ 4:30 pm on April 20th. For more infomation on how to get involved, visit: mittin.org and click on the ‘How to Get Involved' tab or use the QR code at the end of this memo to sign up.