Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Cara Alexander has been named director of exceptional children’s services for the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System. She has served as director of Compliance Monitoring with the Tennessee Division of Special Education since 2007 and was appointed by Gov. Phil Bredesen to the State Rehabilitation Council.

Alexander has a master’s degree in elementary education and master of science degree in special education from Peabody at Vanderbilt University, and she earned a B.A. in psychology from Marietta College in Ohio. She also has served as an adjunct professor at Tennessee State University College of Education.

For the past several years, her work has been focused with the Tennessee Department of Education, coordinating monitoring activities, supervising compliance consultants across the state, and ensuring state compliance with federal law.

“There could not be any one more qualified that Cara Alexander to take our Special Education and Exceptional Children’s Services program to a new level of excellence in this district,” Schools Director Mike Harris said.

“It's with a great deal of excitement, both professionally and personally, that I join the Clarksville-Montgomery County School system.  Special Education represents the commitment that all children can learn and be successful,” Alexander said. “My position as director of compliance monitoring for the Tennessee Department of Education has been a wonderful opportunity to ensure all students in Tennessee receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.”

Alexander added that working on the school district level has been a goal of hers. “This position will now allow me to work directly with teachers, administrators, parents and students.  When the opportunity arose to work for Clarksville Montgomery County Schools, one of the most progressive, child-centered school systems in the state, I felt honored to be considered.  I am joining a team of caring professionals that share the goal of providing the highest quality educational experience possible.”

Alexander, who begins her duties at CMCSS March 1, replaces Theresa Muckleroy who now serves as an assistant principal at Northwest High School.