Leading with Insight

How a Longwood SPED Graduate Is Shaping Districtwide Success

Caitlin Spruill (BS ‘12, MS ‘13), assistant superintendent of Dare County Schools in North Carolina, credits her Master of Science in Education degree in special education (SPED) from Longwood University with shaping her data-driven leadership approach.

Investing in People and Systems

Long before she was supporting educators across a district, Spruill was developing the systems-thinking mindset that now defines her leadership approach.

“Meaningful change happens when we invest in people, build strong systems, and stay focused on student outcomes,” said Spruill. “My background in special education has reinforced the importance of using data to identify student needs, providing individualized support, and building systems that empower educators to meet every student where they are. These experiences continue to guide how I lead, ensuring that every decision is rooted in what will best support both teachers and learners.”

From the Classroom to District Leadership

Spruill’s leadership philosophy first took shape in the special education classroom and expanded as she moved into school and district leadership roles. 

Along the way, she relied on the data-driven strategies and instructional tools she learned while studying at Longwood. 

“[Longwood’s SPED program] strengthened my ability to analyze student data and implement research-based instructional strategies, which I use daily to support teachers and students,” said Spruill. “The program also enhanced my skills in coaching and mentoring educators.”

In 2025 Spruill was honored with the North Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development Outstanding Young Educator Award and completed the North Carolina Aspiring Superintendents Program. 

That same summer, Dare County Schools named her assistant superintendent. 

Translating Learning into Leadership

As Spruill’s responsibilities expand, her focus remains the same: equipping educators with targeted, actionable tools that directly impact student learning. 

Longwood’s integration of theory and practice, grounded in hands-on, evidence-based strategies, has helped shape that approach. 

“[The SPED program] deepened my understanding of inclusive practices and leadership strategies, allowing me to lead with confidence, advocate effectively for all learners, and foster a collaborative culture across our schools,” she said. 

Lasting Impact

For Spruill, the lessons she learned at Longwood continue to shape how she approaches leadership and supports educators and students today. 

She recommends Longwood’s Master of Science in Education degree in special education to educators who value practical strategies that can be applied immediately in the classroom and a collaborative learning environment.

“My time in the program has strengthened my instructional expertise and confidence in implementing strategies that make a real difference for students.”