Teacher’s early class transformed Special education approach
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In the 1980s, Lee Casuscelli began her teaching career at The Grange Public School in Sydney, Australia, where she was assigned a class of students considered difficult to manage.
These students initially struggled with focus and classroom behaviour, but Casuscelli dedicated herself to understanding their individual needs rather than focusing on their challenges. Her efforts led to improved attendance and a more settled learning environment, marking the start of a career devoted to supporting students with disabilities and autism.
Throughout her career, Casuscelli developed programs like “Tool Time” at Our Lady Help of Christians school, offering practical social skills training for students with autism and guidance for their parents. She later served as principal at two Aspect schools before becoming director of education at Schools Plus, a non-profit organisation. Following her unexpected death in February, Schools Plus established the Lee Casuscelli Excellence in Special Education Award to honour her legacy.
Dr Dawn Grant-Skiba, principal of Warrah Specialist School, received the inaugural award, which includes $50,000 to support professional development and expand innovative programs for students with disabilities. Grant-Skiba, originally from Jamaica, said she finds the most fulfilment in helping students who require extra support.
