JAMESTOWN, N.Y. –  The Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education has appointed Maureen Kessler to serve as the district’s Director of Special Education. Kessler, who has served as the district’s Coordinator of Pupil Personnel Services since 2019, will begin her appointment on Sept. 25. 

“Maureen has demonstrated great talent and a commitment to students with special needs throughout her career, and especially during her time here at JPS,” said Dr. Kevin Whitaker, JPS Superintendent. “I am so happy that she will be continuing in a larger role, working hard to support our students through programming and building relationships with families.  She continues to be an excellent addition to our team.”

“We are fortunate to have Maureen step into a new leadership role as the Director of Special Education,” said Jessie Joy, Executive Director of Information and Student Services. “Having worked with Maureen for many years, I am certain that she holds the sincere belief that all students can be successful with the right support systems in place. Her experience as a district leader and her expertise in academic and behavioral support for exceptional learners make her the perfect fit to lead our special education program.”

Kessler joined Jamestown Public Schools in 2015 as Behavior Analyst and PBIS Consultant before being promoted to her current position in July 2019. As Coordinator of Pupil Personnel Services, she has assisted the Director of Special Education in the oversight of Special Education programs and continuum of services. She began her career as a caseworker for children in residential and non-residential outreach support programs before becoming a Special Education Teacher at Baker Victory Services in Lackawanna in 2007. 

“I am honored to take on the role of Director of Special Education for Jamestown Public Schools,” Kessler said. “I'm committed to ensuring every Jamestown student receives the support and resources they need to succeed. I look forward to working closely with our amazing teachers, staff, and administrators to create an inclusive environment where we see every child learning every day."

Kessler received her B.A. in Psychology from the State University of New York at Geneseo, her M.S. in Special Education (Childhood) from D’Youville College, and her school building leader and school district leader certificates from St. Bonaventure University. She resides in Springville with her children, Abigail and Brynn.