Renee Shoaf’s passion for special education is evident in every area of her life. The mother of two spent over a decade working in dedicated service in special education classrooms before deciding to take the next step in her career. It was a step that would not only advance her career but also help her multiply her impact in serving special education teachers, students, and families.
“I felt a strong urge to return to school to enhance my education,” Renee shared. That urge became especially persistent around 2021, eventually pushing her to explore her options. In 2022, she reached out to Dr. Lynette Thompson, then Program Director of the Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education (MAASE) program at Southern Nazarene University (SNU).
Renee had previously worked with Dr. Thompson in the field. As someone she deeply respected, Renee decided to reach out to her regarding the graduate programs available at SNU. “I contacted Dr. Thompson with a few inquiries, and she explained the MAASE program, which seemed like an excellent match for me.”
A Heart for Students and a Head for Leadership
Renee poured her heart and soul into teaching students with special needs for 14 years, with a focus on secondary transition for the last seven years. Secondary transition is a crucial element of special education, focusing on helping students and their families navigate life after high school. The path can often be complex and emotional for these students and their families.
Educators specializing in secondary transition help students and their families focus on goals like employment, further education or training, and independent living. Renee’s experience in this capacity helped her develop a clearer understanding of the broader needs of special education students and how she might contribute to addressing these needs beyond the classroom. She wanted to make a bigger impact on the lives of students with disabilities and their families.
Choosing SNU: The Right Program at the Right Time
When considering the transition from working in the classroom to taking on a leadership role in special education, Renee knew she would need the proper education and the right support system to guide her. SNU offered all of this and more. “I was fortunate to have amazing classmates in my cohort and exceptional professors guiding me,” she reflects.
The MAASE program at SNU is designed specifically for professionals like Renee, supporting educators with real-world experience who are ready to step into administrative roles within special education. Emphasizing both practical knowledge and leadership skills, the program prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of special education services at the district and school levels.
During her time in SNU’s MAASE program, Renee gained more than just the skills needed to advance her career in special education; she also built lasting relationships with her peers. “I have a great relationship with my cohort,” she says. “We supported each other through the challenges and cheered each other on through every success.”
Real-World Impact
In July 2024, shortly after completing her Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education at SNU, Renee accepted a new position as a special services coordinator. Special services coordinators oversee and manage programs and services for students with disabilities. They ensure students receive the educational support and resources they need by collaborating with teachers and parents.
“I truly enjoy my new position, as it allows me to support teachers on a daily basis,” she explains.
As a special services coordinator, Renee now works alongside educators, offering mentorship, guidance, and advocacy. With her previous experience in the classroom, she understands firsthand the demands of the job and the deep commitment it takes to serve students with special needs. Her new role enables her to amplify her impact by empowering the teachers and programs that serve those students every day.
Renee’s story is a powerful example of how professional development can truly open doors and advance your career. “Yes, I have my current job due to my degree from SNU,” she confirms.
By investing in herself through the pursuit of higher education, Renee has also invested in the future of special education in her school district. With her classroom experience and new administrative training, she now serves as a critical link between teachers, students, families, and district leadership. This is the kind of real-world impact the MAASE program is designed to create.
Caring Beyond the School Building
While Renee’s professional journey is inspiring, her personal life is equally as committed and rewarding. When they’re not busy with school and work, Renee and her husband of 12 years spend their free time volunteering with Special Olympics Oklahoma. This involvement reflects their deep and ongoing commitment to the special needs community.
Their involvement with Special Olympics isn’t just an extracurricular activity, but an extension of who they are as a family. Whether in the classroom, in the office, at home, or on the field, Renee is always focused on serving others with compassion, dignity, and excellence.
A New Chapter
Renee Shoaf stands as a testament to what’s possible when passion meets preparation. Her years in the classroom gave her experience, insight, and empathy. Her master’s degree from SNU gave her the tools and confidence to lead.
With a new role and an enduring sense of purpose, Renee is now making a difference, not just in the lives of students but in the lives of the teachers who serve them every day.
Interested in following in Renee’s footsteps? Learn more about SNU’s Master’s in Administration of Special Education program today.
