Dr. Lydia Moore

2026 Recipient

Executive Director of Special Education at Farmington Public Schools

2026 Award Presentation Speech

Our 2026 recipient of the Patricia Gilcrest-Frazier award has long standing respect from their colleagues. Those who know this DIRECTOR describe them as a fun-loving, hard-working, and deeply caring leader who has dedicated their career to ensuring that students with disabilities are seen first and foremost as general education students—students with strengths, potential, and limitless possibilities.

Out of the descriptors stated about our recipient, FUN-LOVING almost seems like an oxymoron when we examine their title: Executive Director of Special Education. Think about that....a FUN-LOVING Director of Special Education!! That is exactly why this individual is being awarded this honor. They work very, very hard, but don’t take themselves too seriously. They laugh EVEN when the work has exhausted them. THIS person laughs at the circumstances which lightens the environment—making those around them relax and recenter in the moment.

Our 2026 recipient has led meaningful, systemic change that strengthens inclusive practices, supports trauma-informed services, and ensures students receive instruction from highly trained educators. She puts children first—always. Every decision, every difficult conversation, every system she challenges is guided by one question: What is in the student’s best lifelong interest? She listens compassionately to families, maintains an open-door policy for staff, and leads with clarity and consistency.

Her leadership extends far beyond her district. This DIRECTOR has served as President of the Council for Exceptional Children, currently co-chairs MAASE Professional Learning, chairs SEAC, and contributes extensively to MAASE, MCEC, Oakland Schools, and statewide initiatives. She gives countless hours of service—often quietly—because she believes leadership means humbly putting yourself out of the spotlight to remain focused on the WORK.

This DIRECTOR’s journey as a learner reflects both deep expertise and lifelong commitment. She earned her Doctorate from Kent State University, her Master’s degree from Oakland University, and her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University, along with K–12 Administrative certification from Grand Valley State University. But what truly defines her is how she has used that knowledge in service of students, families, and educators. She teaches future educators at Madonna University and continually engages in innovative learning efforts across Michigan.

This afternoon we celebrate not only Dr. Lydia Moore’s accomplishments, but the lives she has changed and the systems she continues to improve. Dr. Moore is profoundly deserving of the Patricia Gilcrest-Frazier Award. Her passion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment inspire all of us to do better—for students, for families, and for one another. Congratulations, Lydia Moore!!