Judy Holsinger, Executive Director of the Sacramento County SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area) received the Education Partnership Award from the College of Education at California State University, Sacramento, at an awards banquet on May 2, 2008.
Holsinger has been an educator for more than 40 years, serving in many roles, including an elementary school teacher, special education teacher, special education coordinator and director, and a teacher of graduate students through the University of California, Davis.
"Judy's recognition for her work in special education is well deserved," said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon. "She meets all students, parents and staff with poise, dignity and respect and is the definition of a knowledgeable and resourceful educator. The special education families of Sacramento County are fortunate to have Judy working on their behalf."
Holsinger coordinates the provision of special education services for students within thirteen school districts in Sacramento County and the county office programs. She is an expert liaison to the District Superintendents and has saved the districts hundreds of thousands of dollars by providing districts with mediation and resolution services within the special education arena.
"Judy's wisdom and expertise in the field of education and special education is unsurpassed," said Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Robin M. Pierson. "She is known as the ultimate facilitator and affectionately known as the 'den mother' of the four SELPAs within the county."
Holsinger organized an Autism Institute for local district staff, bringing together the University of California, Davis, the M.I.N.D. Institute, and practitioners in the field. In 2006, she was appointed to the California State Advisory Committee for Special Education.
The Education Partnership Award honors educators for their positive efforts towards quality public education. To be nominated for this award, awardees had to demonstrate evidence of making a positive impact on student outcomes and/or school climate, to provide evidence of ongoing systemic impact and collaborative efforts, as well as provide other evidence of an impact that is worthy of merit.