OSPI Special Education Leader Glenna Gallo Nominated for Federal Special Education Position

OLYMPIA—November 12, 2021—Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that President Biden has nominated Glenna Gallo to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS).

Gallo has served as the Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Services for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) since July 2017. In her time at OSPI, Gallo spearheaded Washington’s work on inclusionary practices, advocated for the greatest legislative investment to support schools in serving students with disabilities in state history, and built a culture of trust and unity among the special education community and OSPI.

“Glenna is a phenomenal leader and advocate for students with disabilities and their families, and though this is an enormous loss for Washington state, I know she is the best person to be leading this work at the federal level,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal.

“It is such an honor to be nominated by President Biden for this role,” Gallo said. “I look forward to the opportunity to continue supporting people with disabilities, their families, and school district and state personnel with special education and rehabilitation services.”

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services supports children, youth, and adults with disabilities, working toward improved outcomes and opportunities for meaningful employment and postsecondary success.

Gallo’s nomination requires confirmation by the U.S. Senate, which is expected to take place within the next couple of months.