Top 10 Director of Special Education - 2025

J. Brock Tarno, Director of Special Education at Georgia Cyber Academy, is a compassionate leader with 18 years of experience. A former teacher and systems thinker, he combines academic rigor and empathy to design programs that empower students and support staff success.

Cassandra Scott is the Director of Special Education at Responsive Education Solutions and a highly experienced Educational Diagnostician. Her expertise in this field encompasses educational assessment, behavioral disorders and secondary education management. With a Master's degree in Special Education, she actively champions critical equity and diversity initiatives within the academic sphere.

Melissa (Lembo) Whisted, Ph.D., a persistent leader with a relentless work ethic, is the Director of Special Education at Indian River School District. She is an experienced leader skilled in strategic planning, team management and problem-solving in the K–12 education sector. Melissa works closely with staff, students and stakeholders to improve programs and ensure organized, collaborative support for all learners.

As Director of Special Education at the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, Jayme Nash leads the development and implementation of essential specialized student services. She is committed to upholding educational standards, collaboration, ensuring regulatory compliance and cultivating inclusive learning pathways for all students within the district.

Dr. Carissa Tebben serves as the Director of Special Education for Minneapolis Public Schools. She is a seasoned educational leader responsible for the strategic oversight of all-inclusive and adaptive learning programs across the district. She ensures equitable access and advanced achievement for all students through evidence-based strategies and collaborative leadership.

Stephanie Scimeca, M.S. Ed., M.A. Biology, is the Director of Special Education at the NYC Department of Education. She oversees special education compliance, manages IEP systems and supports staff through training and the use of digital tools. Her background in science, conservation biology and special education informs her interdisciplinary, equity-focused approach to systems design and accessibility in mission-driven environments.

Laura Spear, Director of Special Education at Lexington Public Schools, is a proven leader in academics. She applies extensive experience in special education management and coordination to develop and implement innovative programs. Her focus ensures students with disabilities receive comprehensive support for academic excellence and access to the general curriculum.

Dr. Gina Rodriguez is the Director of Special Education at International Leadership of Texas, where she leads initiatives supporting inclusive learning and student advocacy. With a Ph.D. in Special Education and extensive experience across education and nonprofit sectors, she specializes in behavior interventions, teacher training and systems-level change that empowers learners.

Larena Hitt serves as the Director of Special Education at the Hemet Unified School District in California. With a robust background in educational leadership, she oversees the district's special education programs, ensuring equitable access and support for diverse learners. Her strategic vision fosters inclusive academic environments across the district's schools.

Tyrell White, Ed.D., NBCT, is the dedicated Director of Special Education at Plano ISD. His professional mission is rigorously focused on improving the postsecondary outcomes for all students under his purview. Dr. White leverages his extensive expertise and National Board Certification to implement evidence-based, high-impact educational strategies within the district.