Awards

Named in honor of Kathe Shelby, former director of the Ohio Department of Education’s Office for Exceptional Children (2008–2011), the annual Leadership Award recognizes an exceptional special education leader in Ohio who demonstrates outstanding skill in elevating the quality of services and supports for students with disabilities. Kathe exemplified initiative, influence, and deep respect for children with special needs and for the parents, educators, related service providers, and administrators who support them.

Although Kathe passed away in 2011, the recipients of the Leadership Award continue to carry forward her spirit and her work. Through their leadership, they honor her legacy and advance the vision she championed for Ohio’s children.

Wendee Bertke
Intervention Specialist, Grand Lake Regional Educational Service Center

With more than 23 years of teaching experience, Wendee Bertke (B.Ed, M.S. Ed) serves as an intervention specialist for junior and senior students in Career Pathways, an employment-based classroom at the Tri Star Career Compact.

Wendee has dedicated her career to working with individuals with special needs. From serving as a multiple disabilities classroom teacher, to working with students with learning disabilities in a mild-to-moderate setting, to building an entirely new Career Pathways program through Grand Lake Regional ESC (formally Mercer County ESC) serving students with a range of disabilities, including autism and emotional disturbance. This specialized career technical program started in 2018 and serves youth from nine different school districts across two counties.

Committed to serving the whole student Wendee continues to advocate, refine and grow the program to find and provide the best services for students. Wendee is driven to help each student succeed in their transition into successful employment and adult life.