Greenwich Public Schools Hires Special Education Coordinator

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones announced this week that Joseph Baynes has been named special education coordinator, effective immediately. Baynes had been serving as interim special education coordinator since October.

Baynes will be responsible for planning, coordinating and supervising special education services, while assisting building administrators in monitoring the instruction of students with disabilities in both general education and special education settings, the district said in a news release.

He will also act as a contributing and primary evaluator for certified special education and related services staff, provide assistance to building-based administrators on IEP/PPT meetings, and provide input to Chief Officer of Special Education and Student Supports Dr. Stacey Heiligenthaler.

"Mr. Baynes’ special education experience, knowledge and dedication to students, staff, and families is a tremendous asset to the District," Heiligenthaler said in a news release. "I am excited to have him as a permanent addition to the Special Education and Student Supports team."

Since 2020, Baynes served as a special education teacher at Greenwich High School. Prior to joining GPS, he worked at Eagle Hill School from 2012 through 2020 and Buffalo Public Schools in 2012 as a special education teacher with elementary age students.

"I am thrilled to take on the role of Special Education Coordinator for Greenwich Public Schools," Baynes said in a news release. "While filling the role on an interim basis since October, I have been inspired by the commitment and dedication of the District's SESS staff members. I am looking forward to continuing to partner with the SESS administrative team and building administrators to provide support for our students, educators, and families."

Baynes holds a bachelor’s degree in special education and general education and a masters in childhood special education from Buffalo State University. He earned his sixth year degree in educational leadership from the University of Bridgeport.