The Howard County Board of Education at its meeting on Sept. 25, 2025, approved the appointment of Dr. Melissa Brunson as the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) Executive Director of Special Education effective Nov. 3.
“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Brunson to the HCPSS team,” said HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes. “She is going to be a valuable addition to our community and help lead us forward as we implement the necessary adjustments and improvements within the Department of Special Education to better serve every student, staff member and family member.”
Dr. Brunson currently serves as the Director of Special Education for Washington County Public Schools and brings more than 28 years of experience as a special education teacher, school-based leader and principal, and central office leader.
“I am eager to collaborate with Dr. Brunson to advance the HCPSS Department of Special Education strategic plan priorities,” said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jennifer Webster. “Under her leadership, we will work diligently to accelerate student learning, increase staff support, and strengthen family and community engagement.”
Jennifer Riccardi, Acting Executive Director of Special Education, will continue to serve in this role until Nov. 3 and then will transition to her position as the Director of Elementary Special Education.
“Jen has been a steadfast leader during this transitional time and I am truly grateful for the integral role she has played in supporting our special education community over the past several months," said Superintendent Barnes. “Her professionalism, expertise and passion will have a lasting impact on student outcomes, and I look forward to continuing our work together."
Here’s a little more about Dr. Brunson in her own words:
What attracted you to HCPSS?
As both an educator and a parent in Howard County, I’ve had the opportunity to experience HCPSS from different perspectives. I’ve always admired the system’s commitment to innovation, inclusive practices, and genuine engagement with families and community partners. What stands out most to me is the dedication to meeting the diverse needs of every student. Those values deeply resonate with me, and they inspired my desire to bring my leadership experiences to HCPSS to help build on this strong foundation.
What professional accomplishment from your career are you proud of?
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is leading the creation of a central office support system designed specifically for schools. By putting collaboration protocols in place, making regular school visits, and facilitating structured consultations, we were able to provide job-embedded training and tailored supports that directly aligned with each school’s needs. This work strengthened the skills of staff working most closely with students, especially our neurodivergent learners, and built a stronger sense of shared responsibility. It not only deepened understanding of each school’s unique context but also helped create a culture where everyone felt accountable for supporting students with disabilities to succeed.
What do you hope to accomplish on behalf of students, staff and families in Howard County?
As the Executive Director of Special Education, my goal is to build on HCPSS’s strengths while making sure that every student, staff member, and family feels seen, heard, and supported. I want to ensure that decisions are always grounded in what is best for students, and that our schools continue to be places of belonging, growth, and opportunity. Ultimately, I hope to help create an environment where everyone—students, educators, and families alike—has the tools and support to thrive.