CASE Conf 2025

William McDemott
Senior Director of Student Services. First Student
First Student, Inc


Will McDermott began his career in special education in 2002. In 2006, he wrote the program description and received approval from the Illinois State Board of Education to start Hopewell Career Academy, one of the first private therapeutic schools integrating academic standards, social-emotional learning, and career development for students with emotional disabilities. In 2013, Will co-founded Hopewell Transportation, a special transportation service for students with disabilities that integrated research-based interventions to help create stronger public and private partnerships with transportation companies and school districts. In 2019, First Student acquired Hopewell Transportation, and Mr. McDermott continues to work there, focusing his research and efforts on delivering students to school and back home emotionally ready to engage. Additionally, Will is the Chairman of the Board at Connect Academy, a K-8 school he founded that offers early intervention and support for students as they reintegrate into the Least Restrictive Environment.

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