Superintendent Doug White announced on Tuesday that Michael Nelson of Plymouth was chosen as the new director of student services for tri-town schools.

Currently, Nelson is the out of district coordinator/district wide special education coordinator for Walpole Public Schools. He has been there since 2011. Previously he worked at The Home for Little Wanderers, from 2006 through 2011, starting as a lead teacher and moving up to assistant principal in 2009 and then principal in 2010.

The role of the position is to ensure that all children receive equal education opportities while also promoting positive attitudes and relations regarding special education with staff, faculty and the public.

Nelson has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Bates College and a master’s in special education from Walden University. He is in the process of completing a degree in educational leadership at Bridgewater State University.

In a letter announcing the appointment, White said that Nelson brings a variety of skills to the table, including a collaborative leadership style. He has extensive knowledge of federal and state special education laws and regulations.

"In addition, he is a visionary with strong communication, organizational and consensus building skills that will help to build positive relationships with parents and students in the tri-towns," wrote White.

Nelson is taking the place of Theresa Hamm who retired at the end of the school year. He will officially join the administrative team in August.