Former Manhattan-Ogden teacher Jessica Nelson has been appointed as the new special education director for USD 383, succeeding interim director Roger Christian, who is set to retire in June.
Nelson will assume her new role on July 1st.
“I am deeply honored to return to USD 383,” Nelson expressed in a written statement. “I am eager to collaborate with the exceptional special education department, as well as the outstanding educators and administrators at USD 383.”
Nelson is presently employed in Junction City, where she has served as the executive director of special education for Geary County USD 475 since 2023. Prior to this role, she worked as a district-level behavior consultant for USD 475.
Nelson commenced her career as a special education teacher for Manhattan-Ogden USD 383. Additionally, she has held positions as a board-certified behavior analyst, university instructor, and assistant professor.
Nelson holds a B.S. in elementary education and an Ed.D. in special education from Kansas State University, along with an M.S. in Special Education from Emporia State University.
Dr. Nelson currently holds the position of Executive Director of Special Education at Geary County USD 475 in Junction City, KS, a role she has fulfilled since 2023. Before assuming this position, she served as a District Level Behavior Consultant for USD 475. Dr. Nelson began her career as a special education teacher at Manhattan-Ogden USD 383. Additionally, she has worked as a board-certified behavior analyst and held roles as a university instructor and assistant professor. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, an M.S. in Special Education from Emporia State University, and an Ed.D. in Special Education from Kansas State University.
“We eagerly welcome Dr. Nelson back to our district to oversee our special education department,” stated superintendent Eric Reid. “Her extensive knowledge and experience will greatly benefit our students, families, and staff moving forward.”
