Oneida City School District Welcomes New Director of Special Education, Elizabeth Dougherty

Oneida CSD is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Dougherty as the district’s new Director of Special Education.

In this role, Mrs. Dougherty will oversee all special education programs across the district and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Her responsibilities include supervising the development and implementation of IEPs, coordinating related services, and leading the Committees on Special Education (CSE/CPSE) through evaluations, eligibility decisions, and annual reviews. She will also support the district’s intervention systems, assist families in navigating the special education process, manage required documentation, and ensure that services are delivered in the least restrictive environment. In addition, she will provide leadership, staff development, and long-term planning to help the district meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities effectively and equitably.

Mrs. Dougherty shared her excitement about joining Oneida CSD:

“I am very excited to join the Oneida City Schools community and work alongside dedicated educators and families to create a learning environment where every student feels valued, supported, and capable. I look forward to listening, learning, and contributing to programs and initiatives that promote equity, excellence, and meaningful opportunities for all students as I join in this school year.”

Mrs. Dougherty brings a strong academic foundation to her new role. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University at Albany, a Master of Science in Teaching from Le Moyne College, and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Leadership from SUNY Oswego.

Mrs. Dougherty also brings an impressive skill set to the position, including expertise in creating inclusive classrooms, implementing restorative practices, and supporting differentiated instruction. She has extensive knowledge of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and has led professional development in co-teaching, classroom circles, therapeutic crisis intervention, and differentiated instructional strategies. Her experience allows her to support staff, strengthen district systems, and expand access to high-quality learning experiences for all learners.

With nearly 20 years in education, Mrs. Dougherty spent 15 years as a special education teacher for grades 6–12 in the Westhill Central School District. After completing her administrative degree, she served as a Principal for Exceptional Education at the Center for Instruction, Technology, and Innovation (CiTi BOCES) in Mexico, NY, overseeing Extended School Year programming and leading the STRIVE Middle School Program. Most recently, she worked as the Director of Pupil Personnel Services for the Clinton Central School District, where she improved child-find practices, implemented integrated co-teaching, and built a continuum of services to ensure students with disabilities had access to the same opportunities as their peers. These experiences have given her a deep understanding of special education, effective program leadership, and student-centered school improvement.

When she isn’t working, Mrs. Dougherty enjoys spending time with her family, walking, practicing yoga, and cheering on her children at their sporting events and activities.

Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Dougherty to the Oneida City School District!