Jessica Joyner
Suffolk,VA
Summary
Dynamic special education leader with 14 years of progressive experience driving instructional excellence, compliance, and equity for students with disabilities. Skilled in policy development, program oversight, and cross-departmental collaboration. Proven record of leading high-performing teams, resolving complex issues, and building systems that improve student outcomes and strengthen organizational capacity.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Exceptional Learning
Chesapeake Public Schools
07.2024 - Current
- Provide strategic leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of special education programs serving students across district, regional, private day, residential, and jail placements.
- Oversee compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and state/federal regulations, ensuring accountability across schools and programs.
- Supervise personnel, manage staffing allocations, and monitor budgets to maximize resources and service delivery.
- Advise and support administrators during complex legal, disciplinary, and parent matters; facilitate high-stakes IEP/504 meetings.
- Design and lead professional development for administrators, teachers, and support staff to strengthen instructional capacity and compliance practices.
- Represent the division on local and regional committees, including CPMT, SECEP, and Region 2 Special Education Director’s meetings.
Coordinator of Instruction for Special Education
Suffolk Public Schools
01.2023 - 06.2024
- Coordinated K-12 special education programming, extended school year, related services, and out-of-district placements.
- Supervised specialized staff including therapists, specialists, and instructional support personnel.
- Led division compliance processes for IEP/504, Medicaid billing, VA-IEP, PCG services, and state/federal reporting.
- Partnered with curriculum, transportation, and technology departments to meet student needs and ensure equitable access.
- Served as district representative on CPMT, FAPT, SECEP, and regional leadership teams.
- Developed and facilitated divisionwide professional development aligned to instructional priorities.
Special Education Support Specialist
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2020 - 01.2023
- Coached teachers on evidence-based instruction, compliance, and data-driven decision making.
- Designed and delivered professional development to support teachers and administrators.
- Partnered with leadership teams to implement special education programs and ensure adherence to policies and regulations.
Special Education Coach
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2015 - 07.2020
- Led school-based special education initiatives including data analysis, instructional planning, and goal setting.
- Facilitated professional learning on co-teaching, specially designed instruction, and behavioral supports.
- Oversaw case management systems, coordinated IEP processes, and ensured compliance with federal and state guidelines.
Special Education Teacher
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2011 - 07.2020
- Delivered specially designed instruction for students with diverse learning needs.
- Developed and implemented IEPs, conducted assessments, and collaborated with families and general education staff.
- Contributed to schoolwide leadership initiatives and PBIS implementation.
Behavior Specialist
Western Tidewater CSB
01.2008 - 08.2011
- Designed and implemented treatment plans for children in school and group home settings.
- Facilitated individual and family therapy, coordinated evaluations, and managed crisis interventions.
Education
M.S.Ed. - Educational Leadership, Administration & Supervision
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA01.2020
B.S. - Human Service Counseling
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA01.2007
Skills
- Strategic Planning & Program Development
- Policy Development & Implementation
- Compliance & Regulatory Oversight (IDEA, Section 504, State/Federal)
- Budget & Resource Management
- Personnel Supervision & Talent Development
- Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Conflict Resolution & Crisis Management
- Professional Development & Capacity Building
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Community & Regional Partnerships
Leadership Development
- Virginia Department of Education — New Directors of Special Education Academy (Currently Participating)
- Virginia Department of Education — Aspiring Special Education Leaders Academy (Completed Sept 2025)
Timeline
Assistant Director of Exceptional Learning
Chesapeake Public Schools
07.2024 - Current
Coordinator of Instruction for Special Education
Suffolk Public Schools
01.2023 - 06.2024
Special Education Support Specialist
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2020 - 01.2023
Special Education Coach
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2015 - 07.2020
Special Education Teacher
Suffolk Public Schools
08.2011 - 07.2020
Behavior Specialist
Western Tidewater CSB
01.2008 - 08.2011
M.S.Ed. - Educational Leadership, Administration & Supervision
Old Dominion University
B.S. - Human Service Counseling
Old Dominion University
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