Director of Special Services, Grant Management & Innovation Bio

 

Dr. Maria Petsos is in her sixteenth year with The Ewing Public Schools and currently serves as the Director of Special Services. She previously served as the District Supervisor of Special Education for eleven years and has over 26 years of experience in both general and special education classrooms, educational testing, and program development.

Dr. Petsos earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Rider University and holds multiple certifications, including Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (LDT/C) from The College of New Jersey, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) from Rutgers University, and Educational Administration Certifications from Rider University. She is also Nationally Certified as an Educational Diagnostician.

In May 2025, Dr. Petsos earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Special Education from Gwynedd Mercy University. Her doctoral research explored the impact of therapy dogs on student connection, belonging, and learning in the classroom.   

Throughout her career, Dr. Petsos has been a dedicated advocate for students with diverse learning needs, working closely with families, educators, and administrators to create inclusive, supportive, and equitable educational experiences. She is deeply committed to empowering staff through professional development, data-driven decision-making, and innovative interventions that enhance student outcomes.

As Director of Special Services, Dr. Petsos oversees special education programs, related services, intervention initiatives, and grant management, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations while focusing on continuous improvement and collaborative leadership. Her leadership philosophy centers on relationship-building, staff empowerment, and equity in education, with a steadfast belief that all students can succeed when given appropriate supports and opportunities.

Dr. Petsos remains an active Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and continues her professional growth through ongoing coursework and research dissemination. She is passionate about mentoring educators, guiding families, and developing innovative programs that address academic, emotional, and social needs—both in her district and through broader educational initiatives.

Director of Special Services, Grant Management & Innovation 

(609) 538-9800 x7176

Email:  mpetsos@ewingboe.org