Jim Heiden

A special educator at heart, Jim Heiden recently returned to his roots as the Executive Director for WCASS, the premier professional organization for special education leaders and student services professionals in the state of Wisconsin. Jim brings over 40 years of public school experience to WCASS. 

Jim has been a tireless advocate for students with and without special needs throughout his lengthy career. He has served as a special education teacher, student services director, superintendent and school board member in various Wisconsin public schools. He has been an adjunct professor for most of the colleges and universities in the Metro-Milwaukee area. He most recently was the Director of the EdD program at Alverno College. 

Jim earned his PhD in Urban Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2012.  Professionally, he has been involved in the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) for over 35 years. He has held leadership positions in national, state, and local affiliations of CEC and served as the President of CEC in 2015. He continues his service to CEC in distinction as a Past President and a member of the Elizabeth Farrell Society. 

Jim joined the Elizabeth Farrell Society in 2024.