Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason
Position: Retiring Chief, Special Education/Student Services
School: Prince George's County Public Schools
School District: Prince George's County Public Schools
City, State: Upper Marlboro, MD
Support Dr. Gwendolyn J.
Leave a comment
Music that Describes Dr. Gwendolyn J.
Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason was nominated by her colleague, Jennifer Williams.
Dr. Mason is a passionate special educator/administrator who has served approximately 32,000 students with disabilities and their families in the state of Maryland for 40 years. Her desire to serve students with disabilities was an outgrowth of the birth of her younger sister, who is intellectually disabled.
Dr. Mason's career began in Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), where she assumed a variety of roles, including teacher, instructional specialist, compliance officer, and assistant supervisor for special education. In 2001, she transitioned to Montgomery County Public Schools, where she ultimately served as the director of the department of special education services. In 2015, Dr. Mason returned to PGCPS as the associate superintendent for the department of special education and student services. In that role, she focused on the district’s goal of improving the quality of special education services and the performance outcomes of students with disabilities.
Under her leadership, the high school service delivery model in PGCPS has been redesigned to increase access to the general education environment for students with disabilities. The role of speech-language pathologists in PGCPS over the past few years has also shifted to focus on assisting students with the acquisition of academic language to improve their performance outcomes. This model has resulted in state and national conference presentations, including the district’s implementation of Naviance, a progressive system to support career and college planning for all students and their families.
Dr. Mason was appointed by Governor Martin O’Malley to serve on the Commission for Education, Access and Equity in 2014. She presented on Capitol Hill in June 2018 regarding the need to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. That same year, Dr. Mason was appointed as the chief of the division of special education and student services for PGCPS, where she ends her impeccable 40-year career.
It is indeed a great honor to add my support to the nomination of Dr Gwendolyn Mason for the prestigious LifeChanger Award. I have known Dr. Mason for well over 50 years. As a personal friend, I have witnessed her growth from a young lady to the phenomenal woman who is now retiring as the Chief, Special Education/Student Services for the Prince George’s County Public Schools. I have witnessed her passion to care for the education, health and well-being for not only students, but for family members of her own, as well as families who reach out to her for advice and a guidance. She is unwavering with her genuine support. Her demeanor is always one of grace and compassion. Her quiet spirit is one that is so inviting, so comforting. Dr. Mason, I celebrate your very impressive 40-year career and congratulate you on this nomination. God Bless. Cynthia Sargent
Dear Madam/Sir:
I am writing this letter in support of Dr. Gwendolyn Mason, whom I understand to be a nominee for the National Life Group Foundation’s 2020-2021 Life Changers of the Year Program.
I have known Gwen for over 25 years. She is my former supervisor, leader of special education services in two of the largest school systems in the nation--and, most importantly--as a dear friend.
Gwen and I first met when she served as my special education instructional specialist at Kenmoor Elementary School in the Prince George’s County Public Schools where I was the special education chairperson. She always placed the best interests of our students first and foremost, as she consummately worked with administration, faculty, students, and family, to meet the needs of our special needs students. She exhibited a rational approach to problem-solving while displaying attention to detail, highly effective interpersonal skills, accountability, as well as compassion and empathy.
As Gwen moved up the administrative ranks, I came to know her in various positions in the Office of Special Education and Student Services. Later, she moved on to the Montgomery County Public Schools where she headed up special education services. Finally, Gwen was recruited back to Prince George’s County where she served as chief of Special Education and Student Services.
I strongly recommend Gwen for the National Life Group Foundation’s 2020-2021 Life Changers of the Year Program. She is truly a woman of integrity and is held in high esteem by all stakeholders in the school community. Indeed, she has had a distinguished, exemplary, groundbreaking career.
Thanks for the opportunity to share the good word about my friend, Gwen.
Best regards,
Mrs. Dale J. Collins
Special Education Teacher and Chairperson
It is my distinct honor to support the nomination of Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason for the Life Changer of the Year Award. I have served under Dr. Mason’s leadership for the past five years when she returned to Prince George’s County Public Schools to take the reins as Chief of the Division of Special Education and Student Services. Her time with us has been purposeful, intentional and driven by a clear conviction to see change occur in our district. I watched her leadership, drive and energy never diminish. Even through life’s challenges, she amazingly remained resolute about the mission of our work. Under her leadership and guidance, PGCPS increased mental health services and initiatives which include a Mental Health Coordinator in PGCPS; licensed counselors in over 90 schools for the 2020-2021 school year; evidence-based trainings on mental health awareness, Restorative Approaches, suicide prevention, therapeutic approaches, and trauma. We also implemented the system’s first Youth and Family Mental Health Symposium and provided counseling services to students via telehealth for the first time in history!
Dr. Mason also supported our system’s efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism through our Attendance Taskforce that served as a think tank around data quality, resources, administrative procedures, training and communication. She worked with Harvard Innovation Lab to implement AllHere, an evidence-based strategy in our highest need schools. She also supported our new graduation certification plan and the implementation of our new automated student record card during the pandemic! Lastly, Dr. Mason actively supported our college and career readiness efforts wherein our district rolled out Naviance, Pathway to College Student Guide, our new professional school counselor evaluation tool, and increased dual enrollment for students. The Department of Student Services can rightly note so many more accomplishments that we have amassed through Dr. Mason’s hands on tutelage. As a growing leader, I am grateful for her example, modeling, guidance, patience, honesty and relentless support. She is indeed a woman of vision, faith, courage and strength. These are truly the characteristics of a change agent! May the virtue you have poured out come back to you through blissful and joyous days. Happy Retirement Dr. Mason and all the very best on your nomination! Liz Faison
It is with great pleasure that I support the nomination of Dr. Gwendolyn Mason for this distinguished honor. In my career, I have had the unique distinction of working with this extraordinary, consummate professional in both Prince George's and Montgomery County, MD. What a blessing and an honor it has been to witness Dr. Mason utilize her profound gifts and talents with ease and assured confidence while working in both school systems. She has been on a relentless mission and has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those with special needs and their families. Her outstanding leadership skills have been apparent and admirable throughout her career. When she departed Prince George's County, after years of devoted service, she entered Montgomery's system as the director of of the department of special education services. Dr. Mason entered Montgomery County with an indelible, passion-filled desire to improve the quality and delivery of special education services. She was immediately respected and revered as an extremely knowledgeable, no-nonsense, proactive leader. She gave guidance, direction, and care to scores of professionals and students in this enormous school system. She led others with such skill, clarity, truth, and honesty that I personally heard people express their love and admiration for her. Dr. Mason is a visionary with the ability to identify systemic problems, develop viable solutions, communicate them to others, and to reinforce the execution of these solutions with firmness yet grace. She is a brilliant, walking encyclopedia not only of special education law, policies, and regulations, but of luminous ideas for change and improvement that have hallmarked her career. She has been a change agent and a driving force everywhere she has served. All of her stringent responsibilities in both school systems prepared her to ultimately return to Prince George's County as the associate superintendent for the department of special education and student services and subsequently as the chief of the division of special education and student services. Once again, she had embarked upon her mission for students with special needs. Her work is a reflection of deep selflessness, commitment, and genuine care. Upon her retirement there is no doubt in my mind that she will continue to touch and enhance the lives of those with differing abilities. Dr. Gwendolyn Mason is highly deserving of this honor. She has certainly left an indelible mark on students, families, and colleagues alike! I highly recommend Dr. Mason's nomination, and I celebrate her illustrious 40-year career!
To the LifeChanger community, selection committee and friends: I am honored to share specific highlights regarding Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason’s lifelong work in the field of Special Education, which began with a close family member. Gwendolyn formalized her career at Howard University (HU), George Washington (GW) University and finally at the University of Maryland (UMD), College Park Campus.
While an undergraduate at HU, Dr. Mason was part of a student leadership team working to submit various white papers and documents to support Public Law 94-142 which is now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. Holding a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Elementary Education from HU, Gwendolyn moved to GW to earn a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Human Development – Special Education. Excelling in all coursework and as a model teacher to students with disabilities, Gwendolyn found her niche. From that point on, Gwendolyn began shaping special education as we see it today, and earned an Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) from UMD.
From serving as an administrator in a private school during her early career to various administrative positions in public schools, Dr. Mason worked to create innovative educational programs for students with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers. She was instrumental in moving students from separate classes and schools to more inclusive opportunities. Her work has been replicated both nationally, and internationally.
While serving as the Director of Special Education in Montgomery County Maryland Public Schools, Dr. Mason took charge and worked with a team of parents and educators to successfully implement the Facilitated Communication (FC) Pilot for four students with Autism. Facilitated communication (FC) is a form of alternative and augmentative communication in which people with disabilities and communication impairments express themselves by pointing (e.g., at pictures, letters, objects or words) and, more commonly, by typing on a keyboard with the assistance of a facilitator. The pilot enabled students to use FC as a way to communicate more effectively with others at school and to demonstrate their learning and knowledge of the curriculum. Although controversial, Dr. Mason gathered facts, met with members of the community and Syracuse University staff to ensure fidelity of implementation and reliable reporting of the results.
I would love to share each phase of Dr. Mason’s 40 year career. However, that would take volumes. Therefore, I will focus on her most recent work in Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she serves as the Chief of Special Education and Student Services. Dr. Mason redesigned the Special Education, and Student Services departments to function as a cohesive group supporting teachers, students, families, and the greater community. Her work enabled students to reach national gains in all academic areas, while reducing the suspension rate for students with disabilities.
Dr. Mason is hardworking and a consummate professional very deserving of the Lifechanger of the Year award. I recommend her without reservation and look forward to her being the next LifeChanger recipient.
I have had the pleasure if knowing Gwen on and off the job. The grace that she demonstrates on the job is multiplied in her personal life. She is the matriarch of her family; serving those in need, assisting others on the paths they travel, assuming the responsibilities of caring for her elders, and so much more.
If I had to describe Gwendolyn to a stranger, I would ask that person to visualize a beautiful woman, internally and externally, who navigates the world;her world; with absolute grace, composure, and love. Her smile speaks volumes. It speaks of confidence, assurance, dedication, drive, all wrapped up in a loving, maternal spirit. Gwendolyn will be, sorely, missed, as a leader, a colleague, and a friend, to all who know and love her.
Dr. Mason,
Thank you for being such a passionate and dedicated servant to the students and families over your 40-year tenure. It takes a truly special individual to commit their life to the service and advocacy of others. You are a dynamic woman, leader, and human being. Cheers to you and the next chapter of your life, which will certainly be nothing less than amazing. Thank you for all you have done, it does not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Congratulations to Dr. Gwendolyn Mason the nomination of the LifeChanger Award. Dr. Mason is indeed a life changer at Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). Under her leadership, I have witnessed a modernization transformation at PGCPS. Dr. Mason is a leader in every sense of the word. Her committed to student success and equity for all students is unparalleled.
Dr. Gwendolyn Mason has exhibited great leadership and professionalism. She has always worked in the best interest of students. Dr. Mason worked diligently to ensure that the staff members serving in the Student Services Department could support and advocate for students. Recently, I mentioned to a friend that Dr. Mason would retire soon, and that friend immediately said she would miss her and shared a very kind gesture Dr. Mason made on behalf of her grandson. My friend went on to say that months later, she saw Dr. Mason, and she inquired about her grandson's success. My friend was honored that Dr. Mason remembered her and her grandson's situation. These are a few of many ways Dr. Mason has positively influenced others. Her work is much appreciated.
I am excited to support Dr. Mason's nomination as a Life Changer of the Year! Dr. Mason is visionary, committed, and dedicated to improving the academic outcomes of all students. Dr. Mason is a courageous and bold leader! Over the years, I have the opportunity to work with Dr. Mason in different capacities. Dr. Mason is someone I would consider a change agent who is steadfast to make her vision a reality. When I began the Director of Special Education in 2016, under Dr. Mason's leadership, she was clear about the outcomes that must be achieved for special education students and families in Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS). Dr. Mason's first point of business when she returned to PGCPS in 2015 was to increase access to general education classes for students with disabilities. As a result of her leadership, in June 2020, PGPCS finally met the state target of educating students with disabilities in general education environments for 80% or more of the time. This is a true testament to her bold vision. Dr. Mason also worked with Joint Base Andrews and the ARC to bring Project Search to Prince George's County. Project Search an internal program that provides a year-long internship program for students with developmental disabilities. Dr. Mason deeply understands the needs of students and adults with disabilities which is evident when you talk with her. Dr. Mason has first-hand experiences as an educator and as a mother and sister to a person with a disability. I support Dr. Mason's nomination to receive this important award as she begins of a new life chapter! Thanks for all you have done to support families, students, and educators!
"Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality."
Bennis Quotes
I am delighted to learn that Dr. Gwendolyn Mason is nominated for this award. Dr. Mason is a friend, colleague, and leader par excellent!!!! I had the pleasure of working with Gwen in Montgomery County Public Schools. She was appointed as the supervisor of special education and was assigned to my school. From the district perspective, as the director for special education services, Montgomery County Public Schools, Gwen ensured all students with disabilities received fair and equal opportunities. Moreover, she was always a powerful advocate for the programmatic needs of students including staffing and resources. She provided leadership for more inclusive and effective instructional practices for students. I always appreciated her grace, calm demeanor, knowledge, collaboration, and professionalism.
Congratulations Dr. Mason you deserve this recognition and I was so very fortunate to work with you!!! Much love my Sister!!!
Congratulations! Thank you for leadership and expertise. This is a well deserving nomination for your commitment to families, children, and teachers to ensure all students with disabilities receive a fair and equal opportunity. We will miss your grace, poise, and unwavering professionalism. May God bless you in all of your future endeavors.
I am super elated and of great support of the Nomination of the LifeChanger Award for Dr. Mason. I have known Dr. Mason for 34 years. Dr. Mason has set a high bar of expectation and a standard of excellence in the workforce. From the first day I met her I was embraced with her calm -loving demeanor, her passion for education-especially students with disabilities and her selflessness. All of these things I witnessed first hand from an inside perspective because Dr. Gwendolyn Mason is my Aunt.
Aunt Gwen’s influence is the reason why I became an Educator- a Special Educator. From a young age I watched Aunt Gwen’s passion for helping people, witnessed her wealth of resources and knowledge in the education field and noted her willing spirit to assist with anything within her reach.
Her supreme leadership skills are a true testament to her character and integrity. Her high level of organizational skills is not only exhibited in her professional life but also in her personal life. Her loving nature, humility, professionalism, dedication, guidance and support are all the things that has helped to change many lives both individually and collectively.
She gives inspiration and influence to all those around her as well as agency to those under her direction. Personally, I am grateful for the role she has played in my life. It is my desire to accomplish more in the education field and most importantly, leave an impact on all those around me.
Aunt Gwen I am proud of all that you have accomplished and I can not think of anyone more deserving of this “LifeChanger of the year Award.”
Congratulations on your retirement and May God continue to Bless and Keep you is my prayer.
Congratulations! Thank you for leadership and expertise. This is a well deserving nomination for your commitment to families, children, and teachers to ensure all students with disabilities receive a fair and equal opportunity. We will miss your grace, poise, and unwavering professionalism. May God bless you in all of your future endeavors.
Congratulations on being nominated as a Life Changer. Certainly, you have impacted the lives of students and staff alike. Your commitment to the education field spans a lifetime and your commitment will be long-lasting and sustaining to all that you have encountered. As you move to retirement, I am sure your work is not done and you will continue to touch those around you in a myriad of capacities. I would like to extend a special thank you for your support of Indian Queen ES over the years. Be well!
Congratulations Dr. Mason on your acknowledgment/nomination and your retirement! You are very deserving of this award. I support your nomination fully.
Congratulations Dr. Mason. We met at an MSDE conference a couple of years ago, and have become great colleagues since that day. We went to lunch that day and discussed our different but intersecting paths as staff at PGCPS. We shared some work and personal ideas that day and I thank you for always following up to make sure my young man is progressing successfully. That along with the smile that is always on your face is a testament to your genuine love and care for all young people. I am so glad that our paths crossed that day and many days afterward.
Congratulations Gwen the very best to you and may God continue to bless you.Hope to see you at the next Jackson-Nicholas family reunion.The best to you and family.
I am delighted to learn that Gwen has been nominated as a Life Changer, as she has been one, since she entered the field of special education. I first learned of Gwen when I was the Supervisor of Special Education for the PGCPS. It was clear then that she was a rising star, and she was soon appointed as one of the county Special Education Specialists. When I became the Director of Special Eduction, Gwen was promoted to the position of Compliance Specialist. In that and all of her roles over the years, Gwen has been a consummate professional who has supported both families and the system in a fair and equitable manner. Gwen has both the intelligence and personality to provide exceptional leadership Skills. I had hoped that she would follow me as the Director of Special Education for the PGCPS, but she was lured to neighboring MCPS as a Director of Special Education, only to return to PGC as an Associate Superintendent for Pupil Services! Gwen has provided the leadership to move systems toward more inclusive and effective practices for all students and is more than deserving of the title, “Life Changer!”
Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason, I will submit, is most deserving of this award. Indeed, not only has she been a steadfast pillar to the special education community, but she has also been an unwavering rock to her own family. From tending to the demands of roughly 32,000 students to responding to the needs of her disabled son and sister, Dr. Mason has proven to be a paragon of excellence, stamina, and dedication. That she serves, and has served, irrespective of the emotional and physical burden is telling—for it only reveals that her heart is pure and that her impact is undeniable. In these days, we must at once recognize and celebrate the most selfless among us. We must honor them and tell their stories, for they are far too modest to do it themselves. Moreover, we must champion those who champion the most vulnerable among us—and I will suggest that none are more vulnerable than our precious special needs community. As such, I will argue that selecting Dr. Mason for this reputable award is not only appropriate but also necessary, as doing so only sends an unequivocal signal that a lifetime of sacrificial leadership must never go unnoticed. We must honor her, for she honors us with her legacy.
Congratulations Dr. Mason,
Wishing you the best!
You have served the field of Special Education well!
I am delighted to learn that Gwen has been nominated as a Life Changer, as she has been one, since she entered the field of special education. I first learned of Gwen when I was the Supervisor of Special Education for the PGCPS. It was clear then that she was a rising star, and she was soon appointed as one of the county Special Education Specialists. When I became the Director of Special Eduction, Gwen was promoted to the position of Compliance Specialist. In that and all of her roles over the years, Gwen has been a consummate professional who has supported both families and the system in a fair and equitable manner. Gwen has both the intelligence and personality to provide exceptional leadership Skills. I had hoped that she would follow me as the Director of Special Education for the PGCPS, but she was lured to neighboring MCPS as a Director of Special Education, only to return to PGC as an Associate Superintendent for Pupil Services! Gwen has provided the leadership to move systems toward more inclusive and effective practices for all students and is more than deserving of the title, “Life Changer!”
Congratulations! Thank you for leadership and expertise. This is a well deserving nomination for your commitment to families, children, and teachers to ensure all students with disabilities receive a fair and equal opportunity. We will miss your grace, poise, and unwavering professionalism. May God bless you in all of your future endeavors.
Dear. Dr. Mason,
Thank you for your unwavering support of students...particularly students with special needs, Your commitment and dedication in the field of education is very much appreciated. I wish you much success as you continue your journey through a life that has and will continue to impact many.
All the very best.
Your Colleague,
Andrea Bedenbaugh
P.S. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me as I shared my discovery that your Goddaughter and my daughter where roommates and best friends in college...what a small world.
Congratulations! Thank you for leadership and expertise. This is a well deserving nomination for your commitment to families, children, and teachers to ensure all students with disabilities receive a fair and equal opportunity. We will miss your grace, poise, and unwavering professionalism. May God bless you in all of your future endeavors.
I am very proud of you and the fact that you have been nominated for this award and support this nomination wholeheartedly. As the Life-Changer of the Year 2018-2019 and a proud teacher of PGCPS, I know first hand what it means to be nominated for being dedicated to students and helping them to chart successful futures. I cannot imagine walking a day in your shoes based on the impact you have had on so many students' lives. I thank you and honor your journey and hope that you receive this much deserved award. Congratulations on your retirement and your nomination!
Congratulations Dr. Mason on your retirement. Thank you for your support and leadership. I admire your grace and unwavering commitment to the children we serve. It has been a pleasure having the opportunity to support you at the Loyola Leadership conference and having your guidance and leadership with Special Education in PGCPS. Best wishes as you embark on the next phase of your life.
It has been an honor and privilege to work as colleague with Dr. Gwendolyn Mason. Gwen is a phenomenal woman who has led with such grace and professionalism. She has been masterful in supporting the well being of all students and has exuded excellence in her craft.
Without reservation I support her nomination of the Life Changer of the Year Award. She is more than deserving and possesses the qualities of this recognition.
Gwen, congratulations on your retirement, you are that educator that has made a difference in the lives that you have touched, a life changer indeed.
Congratulations, Dr. Mason for all the year's you serve for the Special Education Department for Prince Georges Public Schools. You will be missed. May God continue to bless you on all levels in your life. You have been an INSPIRATIONAL to all the Special Education Students, Parents, and Staff. Your leadership shows that you have a BIG HEART? in serving the needs of the students. I want to say " thank you". Dr. Mason, you're"One In A Million"! Congratulations ?? to the Awesome, Dr. Mason...
It has been a pleasure and an honor to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Gwendolyn Mason. Her commitment and sincere dedication to ensuring that students with disabilities are provided with educational programs that meet their needs has been exceptional. Prince George’s County Public Schools has been extremely fortunate to have had someone with Dr. Mason’s expertise and knowledge lead the effort to ensure all students with disabilities receive a quality education.
You have been a great example of what excellence looks like. Your poise, expertise and level of professionalism is appreciated. Moreover, your dedication to student achievement is evident in the work you do and is infectious to others around you.
Thank you,
Ms. Gregory
Thank you so much for all your leadership and guidance. You are an awesome and dynamic leader!
From the onset of my introduction to Dr. Gwendolyn Mason, I was received with warmth, kindness and professional demeanor.
Congratulations on a well-deserved nomination for the Life Changer of the Year award! I very much support the nomination of Dr. Mason for this well-deserved award. Her humility and poised spirit has guided my department and myself with various projects to ensure that we are working in the right capacity to represent PGCPS. In her 40 years of teaching, guiding, mentoring and motivating, she has changed thousands of lives for the greater good including mine!
Dr. Mason has always been a powerful advocate and a compassionate leader for students with disabilities, their families, the school system staff, and the community organizations that support them.
It is with esteem honor and pride to be apart of this nomination to support Dr. Gwendolyn Mason, affectionately known to me as, “Aunt Gwen.” This Life Changer of the Year Award is the most accurate way to describe this woman. Almost 25 years ago, when I relocated to Maryland to begin a new chapter in my life, it was my Aunt Gwen who assisted with the love, support and guidance that helped me to navigate my life as a single parent with a young son. Through her support, encouragement and wealth of resources, it helped to pivot my career and professional success while ensuring that I made the correct educational decisions for my sons. To just summarize Dr. Mason she is known for her humble and willingness spirit to put herself aside to help others. She is kindhearted and supportive with a loving nature. She is considerate, polite and thoughtful no matter the situation and she is invested in making sure that any and everyone around her is placed in positions for success.
This opportunity to be awarded with the Life Changer of the Year Award is one that I am confident she deserves, because she helped to change my life from a personal experience and I am eternally grateful and happy to witness this achievement.
Congratulations! Wishing you ALL the best in the next chapter of an amazing life well lived serving others!
I have had the honor of being mentored by you as a student at High Point High School and then working with you as a colleague in Prince George’s County Public Schools. From then to now, you have always advocated for students and their access to very best we have to offer. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, kindness and love to all you encounter. It is something that I will forever carry with me.
I support Dr. Gwendolyn Mason's nomination on LIFECHANGER of the Year Award! To have a successful 40 year career says it all! Dr. Mason is a role-model and natural born leader. She has shared her expertise and knowledge on various aspects of education, in particular special education, with many individuals over the years. Dr. Mason was innovative and proactive in revamping, reinventing, or launching programs for special needs students in Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS). Gwen is a wonderful person to work with - she became not only my colleague but my friend! For Dr. Mason it is not the end of a career but a new beginning - a new adventure - a new endeavor in her life and I wish her well and Godspeed! Congratulations to the great Dr. Mason!!
Dr. Mason is an amazing member of the Executive Leadership Team in Prince George's County Public Schools. Her service to ensure local, state and national compliance of special education laws has always been an asset to the students, families and schools that she serves. Her extensive knowledge of how to meet the needs of our students is exemplary. Thousands of families have benefited from her committed support of students and families over her 40 years of service.
Dr, Gwen Mason you have displayed the quality of LOVE. LOVE is patient and kind. LOVE is not jealous, it does not brag, does not get puffed up, does not behave indecently, does not look for its own interest, does not become provoked, does not keep account of the injury, does not rejoice over unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. LOVE never fails.( 1 Corinthians 13:4-8) I congratulate you on your nomination and thank you for your continued qualities of LOVE.
Congratulations on your nomination! Thank you for all your years of service in education and for dedicating your life in helping youth and families.
It is with great pleasure that I support the nomination of Dr. Gwendolyn Mason for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. When Dr. Mason returned to Prince George's County Public Schools in 2015, she was steadfast in communicating what the vision of the Department of Special Education would be then and in the future. One major challenge for the district was it had one of the lowest percentages of students with disabilities receiving instruction inside general education. At that time, I had worked in the district for 10 years and the data was improving slightly and believed it would take a significant amount of time to meet the target. I believed it would happen but not within the five years which it did under Dr. Mason's leadership. Her vision and expectations for meeting or exceeding the state target were unwavering and clear. Dr. Mason knew she had the leadership team within her supervision to get it done and expressed that confidence in them and knew we would meet the target. What I appreciated was that Dr. Mason always kept the focus on the students and families which is why we all come to work each day. I admire her candor, passion, and confidence in getting the work done and doing it well and autographing her work with excellence. Dr. Mason provided opportunities for all impacted stakeholders to be heard and had an open-door policy with a focus on always moving forward.
I am grateful for Dr. Mason's encouragement and kind words when I decided to pursue a doctoral degree and a new position. Dr. Mason reviewed her doctoral research and listened to what I wanted to pursue and provided some key guidance to think about as I researched a topic. Dr. Mason's conversations were more than talking about specific cases but an extension of professional learning. She provided me the opportunity to reflect on my practice, provided feedback on how to improve my practice to be a better leader and employee. Dr. Mason always acknowledged and stated she appreciated the work of my team through recognition and compliments. I cannot think of one time where she did not express gratitude for the work of leaders in the Department of Special Education.
Finally, when I had to take unexpected medical leave, I shared the situation with Dr. Mason and I was emotional. She told me a personal story of her family members having a similar procedure. Dr. Mason took the time to stop what she was doing to let me know that she would pray for me and that she was confident that I would recover well. That level of personalization meant a lot to me and I was grateful for her calm demeanor and unwavering confidence that God would see me through the situation.
Dr. Mason,
Congratulations on your retirement. Thank you for your leadership and guidance.
You are Awesome and Amazing! Congratulations on a job well done.
Dr. Mason is a pleasure to work with. She is extremely professional, diligent, prepared and organized. She is a model for anyone who aspires to work in professional setting. It was a privilege to have worked with her.
I was very moved by your disclosure on the Virtual Professional Development: Personal Identity and Implicit Bias segment.
Wishing you the Best
" Retirement is when you stop living at work and start working at living."
It has been an absolutely pleasure serving with Dr. Mason! I will sincerely miss her professionalism, focus and grace, and wish her the best in the next phase of her journey.
I have had the honor of working under the leadership and guidance for Dr. Gwendolyn Mason for the past 5 years. She's a true visionary who sets goals and does whatever necessary to achieve those goals. After 40 years of service, she is still passionate as ever. Her determination to improve the quality of education for students is most impressive. Congratulations on this nomination!
Congratulations Dr. Mason. Thank you for being that ever-present mothering professional. The impact you have had will remain with me throughout the rest of my career.
I met Dr. Mason prior to coming to PGCPS. I was keenly aware that I was in the presence of a powerful woman because Dr. Mason led with quiet dignity and her fierce commitment on behalf of students with special needs made her a force to be reckoned with. She was on a mission. She was always prepared, inclusive and cheered on her team. Her smile always lit up the room. She epitomizes for me the type of leadership that is core to building a strong, vibrant and caring school community. She is a life changer and I can't think of anybody who deserves the LifeChanger of the Year award more than Dr. Mason.
Valerie
I support Dr. Gwendolyn Mason's nomination for the LifeChanger of the Year award. Dr. Mason has tirelessly dedicated her life and career to the support of our youth with a unique focus on special needs students. She has given voice to the unheard to ensure the needs and resources required to thrive and succeed are met. Dr. Mason has been an anchor and pillar of strength to families, students, and community for multiple districts within the state of Maryland. After 40 years of dedication and excellence of service, I am proud to endorse this nomination to a woman who is more than deserving of this honor.
Congratulations! You deserve the BEST.
Dr. Mason, I wish you the best in life with an abundance of blessings in your retirement from the district. I know your work in some capacity will continue. Thank you for all that you do, have done, and will continue doing with such grace and genuine concern. Thank you! You are a true leader and I salute you for that. I am sad that we will not be working together again. However, I wish you God's best in all your future endeavors. Congratulations!
Regards,
Lisa Spencer
Thank you for your many years of service to staff, students, parents, and the community. Thank you for bringing me back and for giving me the opportunity to give back to the school system that has given so much to me and now to my children. ????
Congratulations Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason for being a nominee for LIFECHANGER OF THE YEAR AWARD.
I am holding up a torch on your behalf, for I know you are already a winner.
You have touched many lives of people who will always remember your kind spirits.
I say this reward is already in your hands.
Ms. Jackie Stewart-O
OHSD SUITE L
Congratulation on this awards! Thank you for all you have done!
Congratulations on this well deserved honor.
Even from the early days of IT in the county (I was the tech at Oxon Hill Staff development Center) you had a gentle, determination that you always presented with a calm peaceful touch and a big bright smile. Under your leadership, you reminded me a leader is strong, graceful and patient.
Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Mason in her role as Chief of Special Education and Student Services. Her passion and dedication to supporting the needs of students with disabilities is contagious and inspiring. Dr. Mason has virtuously served in many capacities in the field of education and the impact she has made in the lives of communities and families has been considerable. She will be greatly missed.
Dear Gwen, Congratulations on your achievement. You are so deserving of this award. The field of education has indeed benefitted from your desire and compassion to enrich the lives of our children. Thank you for your unconditional love as a friend and the Godmother to my first born.
Congratulations on the nomination!!! You truly deserve it and so much more! Thank you for continuing to be a leader and inspiration to all of us!
It is with deep admiration and an honor to nominate Dr. Gwendolyn J. Mason (Dr. Gwen) for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. I was fortunate to work with Dr. Gwen in two neighboring Maryland counties in her role as a Supervisor and Director of Special Education and Related Services. In each of these capacities, Dr. Gwen was a servant as she not only made sure due process took place, but she took the time to meet with the administration and teachers in the building to make sure a learning community was built for special needs students to succeed with their grade level peers. She made sure that inclusion was an expectation for special needs students in the schoolhouse, and not an option. Dr. Gwen took relationships seriously, as she knew that appropriate educational programs alone would not ensure quality instruction, but teachers and other professionals who were committed to doing whatever necessary for learning success. As an elementary administrator, I always appreciated how Dr. Gwen would reach out to members of the educational management team throughout the year to ensure that barriers to learning were identified and resolved for continuous learning. Dr. Gwen would come out to both of my schools to observe special needs students and their instruction. It was not uncommon for Dr. Gwen to have informal chats with the adults and the students so that she had a pulse of what was actually taking place in the schoolhouse. She helped our learning community problem solve from a different perspective. Her motto was always, "It can and will be done." In conclusion, I believe Dr. Gwen has traveled a stellar professional journey with humbleness and servanthood. She has been blessed with the knowledge, skills, and determination to bless others so that they could lead more productive and meaningful lives. I am most grateful that I was an integral part of her journey.
Stephanie Spencer, Reading Specialist
and Retired Elementary Administrator
As the former Assistant Secretary for Education at the US Dept of Education (OSERS) i had the opportunity to meet many many leaders in special education across our country and the world. Few have the passionate commitment to educating students with disabilities and their families that Dr Gwen Mason displays. Her work ethic, devotion to family, and recognition of education as a civil right are just some of the attributes that make her an extraordinary leader in Special Education. I got to work with her first in Montgomery County and then in Prince Georges County where her tireless efforts to improve outcomes and results for students with disabilities will end her distinguished career, returning to the school district where she began her career. When we went to Capitol Hill in 2018 and she testified about the state of Special Education, she was so well received that folks there immediately recongized how much she can contribute to the national conversation. She deserves this award as she has changed so many lives during her tenure: the lives of students; faculty; families; colleagues; friends; and those fortunate enough to serve under her leadership.
To the Honorable Lifechanger of the Year Panel:
It is an absolute honor to pen a few words regarding this phenomenal woman, Dr. Gwendolyn Mason, in support of her nomination for the Lifechanger of the Year Award.
I have known Dr. Mason for over 30 years. It is a privilege to have her, and call her, my friend, and my sister. Dr. Mason is very intelligent, and perspicacious individual. She is definitely a Lifechanger and is worthy to receive this prestigious award.
Dr. Mason and I attended the Gethsemane Baptist Church of Washington, DC. During Dr. Mason’s tenure at Gethsemane, she and I taught Sunday School for children with disabilities and special needs. Dr. Mason was one of the individuals who was instrumental in creating and designing the very “first“ special needs Sunday School class at Gethsemane. It was Dr. Mason’s foresight, wisdom, and knowledge which made it possible for this unique and successful endeavor to make its mark in the history book of the Gethsemane Baptist Church. Her tenacity, exemplary hard work, and passion as a special needs educator defines her a Lifechanger.
Dr. Mason’s skill set of patience, love, and care for students with a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities has improved the lives of thousands. She is an advocate and trailblazer in the field of special education.
I strongly support Dr. Gwendolyn Mason to be the recipient of the Lifechanger of the Year Award.
Dr Mason. You have served the Maryland school systems with honor and dignity for forty 40 YEARS. Your undying love for the challenged students has help the school systems develop programs that have uplifted these students to a new level of confidence and achievements. I say to you Dr Mason JOB WELL DONE.
YOU WILL BE MISSED!!