About Us
Within the Division of Learning Services, the Office of Special Education administers state and federal funds to support services for students and adults with disabilities. This office works with other state and local agencies to coordinate the Missouri First Steps program, which provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. The office works with local school districts in developing and improving special education services for students (ages 3-21) with disabilities. It also provides financial and technical support for all approved sheltered workshops in the state. Sheltered workshops provide employment for adults with disabilities. This office also oversees the operation of three school systems administered by the State Board of Education. These are the Missouri School for the Blind, the Missouri School for the Deaf and the Missouri Schools for Severely Disabled. Through their outreach programs and consulting services, these school systems assist local school personnel and families throughout the state in meeting the needs of children with disabilities.
Contact Information
Stephen Barr
Assistant Commissioner
Email: stephen.barr@dese.mo.gov
Lina Browner
Executive Assistant
Email: lina.browner@dese.mo.gov
Phone: 573-751-5739
Office Fax: 573-526-4404
Mailing Address:
Office of Special Education
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
P.O. Box 480
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480
Street Address:
4th Floor, Jefferson Building
205 Jefferson Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Office of Special Education Organizational Chart