Leading the Way in Special Education Excellence

Larry Elliott ’94 was recently honored as New Hampshire’s 2024 Special Education Administrator of the Year. This prestigious recognition comes as no surprise to those who know Larry, as his unwavering dedication and transformative leadership have left a lasting mark on the Kearsarge Regional School District. Starting in 1998 as a special education life skills teacher, Larry created the Gateway Program, which is still an active program in the district today. He has been the director of student support services for 15 years in the Kearsarge Regional School District, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students, families and colleagues.

“Since I was in elementary school, I have always wanted to help those students who struggled in school or learned differently or needed different supports in order to succeed,” Larry said.

At Colby-Sawyer, Larry earned a BS in early childhood education. He credits the support and guidance of Professors Janet Bliss and Mark Clement during his time at Colby Sawyer for nurturing his academic and professional growth. He later went on to Notre Dame College to complete a master's degree in emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities and general special education.

Larry credits his role as a parent as having the most profound impact on his life. His son, born with autism in 2009, has been a constant source of inspiration, teaching him invaluable lessons in resilience, empathy and determination. His personal journey as a parent has inspired him to expand his advocacy beyond the classroom. Through initiatives like the Parent Partnership Group and extensive training programs for parents, he is committed to empowering families and fostering a collaborative approach to education.

Jane Bergeron-Beaulieu, executive director of the New Hampshire Association of Special Education Administrators (NHASEA) wrote, “Larry exemplifies a strong understanding of the complexity of the work of special education administration. He leads with patience, is a strong advocate for special education, has a deep commitment for professional learning and creating a positive future for all children.”

As we celebrate the remarkable achievements of Larry Elliott, we are reminded of the profound impact that dedicated educators can have on the lives of those they serve. His unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion serves as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Larry adds, “I love my job. I love what I am doing at the Kearsarge Regional School District, and I hope to still be doing it in 10 years.”