WHEREAS, the Alabama Department of Education adheres to a commitment to provide every child in the state of Alabama with the highest quality of education possible; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Mabrey Whetstone serves as the Director of Special Education Services for the Alabama Department of Education, which ensures that policies, standards, and practices concerning students with disabilities are equitable and implemented correctly; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Whetstone has exhibited a stellar career committed to the educational advancement of students with disabilities at the elementary, junior high, and high school levels for more than a decade before joining the Alabama Department of Education; and

WHEREAS, programs designed to enhance the reading and literacy skills of disabled students have been spearheaded by Dr. Whetstone with remarkable results and increased funding through federally funded grants; and

WHEREAS, statewide efforts to address the issue of minorities disproportionately placed in special education have been have made under Dr. Whetstone’s leadership; and

WHEREAS, the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) has recognized the efforts and accomplishments of Dr. Whetstone and his serving on the NASDSE Board of Directors since 2002; and

WHEREAS, NASDSE has further acknowledged Dr. Whetstone’s contribution to the field of special education by naming him NASDSE 2006-07 President-Elect:

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the State Board of Education does hereby commend Dr. Mabrey Whetstone, Director of Special Education Services, for his significant involvement in the betterment of special education and his outstanding leadership in the quest for quality education for all the children of Alabama; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education congratulates Dr. Whetstone for this most prestigious national recognition.

Done this 14th day of December 2006.