Welcome to the Coffey County Special Education Cooperative

Our Mission…

The mission of the Coffey County Special Education Cooperative (CCSEC) is to provide every student access to the general education curriculum and extra-curricular activities, and to promote academic success and social integration.

About Us…

The Coffey County Special Education Cooperative (CCSEC) serves eleven schools across three school districts in east central Kansas. The participating school districts include: USD 243, Lebo-Waverly; USD 244, Burlington; and USD 245, Southern Coffey County, LeRoy-Gridley.  The CCSEC provides a broad continuum of services for students from birth through 21 years of age.

A word from Tara Glades, Director of Special Education…

Coming back to Coffey County truly feels like coming home. After living here for 20 years and teaching at Burlington Elementary for 11 of those years, I never imagined I'd have the opportunity to return as the Director of Special Education for the Coffey County Special Education Cooperative. It really is a full-circle moment for me, and I couldn't be more grateful and excited. As I begin my 29th year in special education, I continue to be inspired by the students, educators, and families who make this work so meaningful.

I am looking forward to building relationships with the administrators, teachers, and staff in the Leroy-Gridley, Lebo-Waverly, and Burlington school districts. Most of all, I'm excited to meet our students and partner with parents and IEP teams to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive. I believe the best outcomes happen when we work together, communicate openly, and keep students at the center of every decision.

Whether you have questions about our special education services,  or need assistance,  I hope you'll reach out. You can contact me at the USD 244 Central Office in Burlington by calling 620-364-5151 or emailing tglades@usd244ks.org. I look forward to an amazing school year and to serving the students, families, and communities of Coffey County.