We are excited to welcome Tonya Barnes to the Tiger Family as the Special Education Director for the district!
Tonya is a native of Fort Scott, graduating from Fort Scott High School in 1984. Tonya has over 28 years of experience in special education, with 11 years in special education leadership. She is currently in her 8th year as a Director of Special Education, currently serving the Chautauqua & Elk County Cooperative.
Tonya began her career in special education in 1995, teaching special education K-12 for 17 years. Tonya holds a B.S.Ed. in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University; an M.S. in Behavior Disorders from Emporia State University; Building Leadership and District Level Leadership from Emporia State University.
Tonya stated "providing special education and related services to students is a high priority for schools, and the demand is greater than ever before. I am looking forward to partnering with the teachers, staff, and parents to serve students with high quality instruction and programming."
Tonya has been married for 33 years to Kevin Barnes, who teaches in Woodson USD 366. Her son Jon lives in Fort Scott and teaches at Fort Scott High School. Tonya enjoys repurposing vintage items and spending time with her family and pets, including two very spoiled rescue dogs, Bella and Cammo.
"We are so fortunate to have someone with the expertise and experience that Tonya has in the area of special education. I look forward to the impact of her leadership as we continue to better meet the needs of all of our students," stated Destry Brown, Superintendent of Schools.
Mrs. Barnes will join our team on July 1, 2023.