50 signatures reached
To: Knox County Schools Board of Education, Superintendent, and Director of Special Education
Rename Knox County Schools’ Special Education to Exceptional Student Education (ESE)
To Whom This May Concern,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Justin Baird-Bryan, and I am writing to respectfully request your support in renaming the Knox County Schools Department of Special Education to the Department of Exceptional Student Education (ESE).
As you are likely aware, the terminology used within the field of education plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and fostering a positive, inclusive environment. The term “Exceptional Student Education” more accurately reflects the unique strengths and abilities of students who receive specialized services. This language shift aligns with a growing national movement toward recognizing the diversity and capabilities of all students, regardless of their challenges.
The change to Exceptional Student Education (ESE) would:
• Promote a more empowering, strength-based approach to working with students with disabilities.
• Reflect national standards for inclusive and respectful language.
• Help improve public perception of students with disabilities by focusing on their exceptional abilities, rather than framing them solely in terms of their challenges.
• Align with best practices in education and offer a more forward-thinking approach to the needs of students.
As we continue to strive for inclusivity and student-centered practices, I urge the district to consider updating the name of our "Special Education" department and related titles (e.g., Special Education Teacher, Mentor, Facilitator) to reflect more respectful and empowering language. The term “Special Education” has long been viewed by disability advocates as problematic, as it can:
As we continue to strive for inclusivity and student-centered practices, I urge the district to consider updating the name of our "Special Education" department and related titles (e.g., Special Education Teacher, Mentor, Facilitator) to reflect more respectful and empowering language. The term “Special Education” has long been viewed by disability advocates as problematic, as it can:
- Be paternalistic and increase stigma.
- Imply that disability is shameful or something to be hidden.
- Contribute to internalized ableism among students.
- Be vague and confusing in its meaning.
- Suggest that students with disabilities are receiving an advantage rather than equitable support.
The students we serve deserve language that upholds their dignity and potential rather than terminology that can unintentionally reinforce stereotypes. Many school districts across the country have already moved toward more affirming language. A strong example is Hillsborough County Public Schools in Tampa, Florida—where I grew up—which changed the name of its Special Education department to Exceptional Student Education (ESE) to reflect a more inclusive and less stigmatizing approach.
Adopting a term like Exceptional Student Education in Knox County Schools would better reflect the strengths and individual needs of our students while aligning with the best practices in disability advocacy. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this proposal further and explore how we can implement this positive change across the district.
I have spoken with parents, educators, and advocates who support this change, and I believe it is a critical step in fostering an environment that embraces all students as exceptional individuals. It is important that we shift our language to one that highlights the potential within each student, providing them with the recognition they deserve.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you or any relevant stakeholders to further discuss this request and explore how we can implement this change effectively. I am confident that by working together, we can create a positive impact on the students and the community we serve.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response and hope for your support in making this meaningful change.
Sincerely,
Justin Baird-Bryan
KCS Special Education Teacher
Why is this important?
Renaming the Department of Special Education to the Department of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) is an important step toward fostering a more inclusive, respectful, and empowering environment for all students. The current term, “Special Education,” while functional, often carries outdated and limiting connotations, potentially focusing more on what students can’t do rather than highlighting their unique strengths and potential. Switching to the term Exceptional Student Education not only reflects the diverse abilities and potential of these students but also aligns with modern educational practices that emphasize inclusion, equality, and a positive outlook on diversity. This shift in language can change perceptions both within schools and throughout the community, leading to a more supportive environment where students are seen and treated as exceptional, not defined by their challenges.
Supporting this change empowers students with disabilities to be seen for their abilities rather than their challenges. It gives students a sense of pride and encourages them to recognize their strengths. Renaming the department also reflects a deeper commitment to inclusive education and creating a community where all students are respected, valued, and have equal opportunities to succeed. This aligns with the principles of equity and diversity that many schools and organizations are working to strengthen. Furthermore, changing the language surrounding education can have a ripple effect on the entire community. If the department’s name is reframed, it could encourage positive perceptions of students with disabilities among teachers, parents, and the community at large, which can lead to greater understanding and support.
As our understanding of education and disability evolves, so should our language. By advocating for this change, we are joining a larger movement toward a more forward-thinking educational approach. This is an opportunity to reshape the way we approach special education and position our students for success in an ever-changing world. When you join this campaign, you show others that advocating for meaningful changes—no matter how small they may seem—is crucial to building a better and more inclusive society. The more people who speak up, the stronger the message becomes that language matters and that all students deserve recognition for their exceptional abilities.
Together, we have the power to create change. Your voice, whether you’re a parent, educator, student, or community member, contributes to an essential movement that aims to better serve and empower students. This is an opportunity to be a part of something bigger than just a name change—it’s about shifting the narrative for exceptional students and ensuring that they are recognized and celebrated for who they truly are. Your support will show that this is more than just a minor change—it’s a critical step toward transforming how students with disabilities are viewed, treated, and supported in our community. Join the campaign today, and together, we’ll make a meaningful difference!