Top 10 Directors of Special Education - 2026

Andrew Meierding is Director of Special Education at Minneapolis Public Schools, where he oversees K-12 special education programs across one of Minnesota’s largest urban school districts. A former special education teacher who has spent more than a decade within the district, his career reflects a steady progression from classroom practice to system-level leadership focused on equitable access and instructional consistency.

Tarlesha Wayne serves as Senior Director of Special Education Compliance and Operations at Anchorage School District. Her career spans more than two decades across special education, school leadership and student support services. Having worked as a teacher, principal and district leader, she now oversees compliance responsibilities tied to special education and Section 504 services while supporting districtwide systems that affect students with disabilities.

As Director of Special Education at Groveport Madison Schools, Amanda Bernowski oversees services for students aged 3 to 22 with a commitment to ensuring every learner receives the support they need to succeed.

Dr. Sarah Davidovits is Director of Special Education at Special School District of St. Louis County, where she advocates for students, staff, and families. A passionate education leader, she brings deep expertise in supporting students with special needs and fostering inclusive school communities where every learner succeeds.

Larena Hitt is Director of Special Education at Hemet Unified School District, where she advocates for students, staff, and families. A passionate education leader, she brings deep expertise in supporting students with special needs and fostering inclusive school communities where every learner succeeds.

Carrie Barron is Director of Special Education at Gallup-McKinley County Schools, where she supports students, staff, and families. With 35 years as an educator, she brings deep expertise as a former Assistant Principal, Interim Principal, and 504/RTI/Dyslexia coordinator, along with experience as a literacy leader, reading specialist, and classroom teacher.

Tonia Brewer is Senior Director of Special Education at Lansing School District, where she leads efforts to recruit and retain special education teachers. A TeachMichigan Systems Leader Fellow and adjunct professor at Central Michigan University, she brings deep expertise in special education strategy, teacher development, and building systems that support student success.

Dr. Christine Young is Director of Special Education at New Kent County Public Schools, where she supports students, staff, and families. A passionate educator and adjunct professor, she brings deep expertise in evidence-based practices, inclusive education, and fostering learning environments that help every student succeed.

Cindy Miller, Director of Special Services at Springfield International Charter School, oversees support for students with specialized learning needs. Her work connects individualized services with a college-preparatory setting, helping the school serve a diverse student population while keeping students engaged in learning across grade levels.