Special Ed Team

COOR's Special Education Department

COOR Intermediate School District (ISD) Special Education Department is dedicated to supporting students with diverse learning needs and ensuring they receive the appropriate educational resources, accommodations, and services to thrive in their academic journey. This department works collaboratively with teachers, parents, and specialists to create individualized education plans (IEPs) that cater to each student's unique abilities and challenges. By fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, the Special Education Department aims to empower students to achieve their full potential and become active, engaged members of their community. We proudly provide these services to six Local Education Agencies (LEAs), one Public School Academy (PSA), and several non-public schools, ensuring that a wide range of students receive the support they need.  


Special Education Professionals Love Their Jobs! 

Our special education professionals are incredibly dedicated individuals who bring passion, empathy, and expertise to their roles. Their love for their jobs shines through in their unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering students with diverse needs. Each day, they embrace the challenges and rewards of fostering growth, independence, and self-confidence in their students. They find joy in celebrating even the smallest achievements, knowing that these victories can have a profound impact on their student's lives. Their work is driven by a deep belief in the potential of every child and a desire to create an inclusive, supportive environment where all students can thrive. For special education professionals, their careers are not just a job but a heartfelt calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their students and their families. 


Meet a couple of our amazing special education professionals just below.


ECSE & Teacher Consultant - Amber Larrison 

Amber Larrison Video

Speech & Language Pathologist - Nicole Grace

Nicole Grace video


Support Services:

  • Early On Services
  • Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Special Education Teacher Consultant 
  • Orientation & Mobility Specialist
  • School Social Work
  • School Psychologist Services 
  • Special Education Technical Assistance
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Transition Services
  • COOR Educational Center & Adult Transition Center 
  • Visually Impaired Consultant 
  • Professional Learning 


The Special Education Department is also responsible for Child Find and Early On programs across the ISD. This coincides with monitoring and data collection of special education services within the schools.


Special Education Resources: 




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Melisa Akers

Director of Special Education
Phone: 989-275-9562
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Julie Mae Bell

Administrative Assistant to Director
Phone: 989-275-9556
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Marie Harris

Administrative Assistant
Phone: 989-275-9523
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Brenda Vaughan-Ide

General Supervision Monitor/Transition Coordinator
Phone: 989-275-9517
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Nicole Grace

Special Education Technical Assistance
Phone: 989-275-9528