Ascension Public Schools has announced a new leadership appointment aimed at strengthening support for students with special needs across the district. The school system recently named Dr. Jennifer Vicknair as its new Director of Special Education, highlighting her extensive classroom experience, leadership background, and work at both the district and state levels.
Ascension Public Schools Names Dr. Jennifer Vicknair Director of Special Education
Ascension Public Schools has appointed Dr. Jennifer Vicknair as the district’s new Director of Special Education. School officials say her experience in teaching, mentoring educators, and working in state-level education leadership makes her well suited for the role.
Superintendent Edith M. Walker praised the appointment and emphasized the value of Dr. Vicknair’s years of service in the classroom and across the district.
According to Walker, Dr. Vicknair’s background supporting teachers and students creates a strong foundation for guiding the Special Education Department moving forward.
Extensive Experience in Ascension Public Schools
Dr. Vicknair has spent much of her career working within Ascension Public Schools. She began her journey in the district as a special education teacher.
During that time, she taught at several schools including:
- Lowery Elementary
- Dutchtown Primary
Her classroom experience allowed her to work directly with students who require specialized support and instruction.
Leadership Roles in Local Schools
After teaching in the classroom, Dr. Vicknair took on leadership roles designed to support other educators.
She served as:
- Lead Special Education Teacher
- Mentor Teacher
These roles were held at schools including:
- Duplessis Primary
- Dutchtown High School
Her work focused on helping teachers improve instructional strategies for students with disabilities while also supporting student success across the district.
Recent Work as Special Education Coordinator
From 2022 to 2025, Dr. Vicknair served as the Special Education Coordinator for LeBlanc Special Services within Ascension Public Schools.
In that position, she helped coordinate services and resources for students with special education needs while working closely with teachers, administrators, and families.
State-Level Education Leadership
Dr. Vicknair also expanded her experience by working at the state level with the Louisiana Department of Education.
Between 2025 and 2026, she served as an Education Consultant focusing on students with significant cognitive disabilities and transition services.
During the same period, she worked as Project Director for the Louisiana Center for Effective Transitions.
Her work in these roles focused on helping students successfully transition from school to adulthood and improving statewide support programs.
Educational Background
Dr. Vicknair has an extensive academic background that supports her work in education and leadership.
Her degrees include:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M–Tarleton State University in 2003
- Master of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M–Tarleton State University in 2005
- Master of Education from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2016
- Doctor of Education from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2023
These degrees reflect her continued focus on psychology, education, and leadership development.
