Dawn Hesse is a seasoned educator with over 35 years of experience. Prior to her current role as a Pre-Employment Transition Specialist, Dawn has served multiple roles in special education including teacher, Director, and Department Chair and Coordinator with an emphasis in post-secondary transition and trauma-based initiatives in the public-school setting. Dawn holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and master’s degree from Lincoln University in administration. Throughout her career, she has received awards relating to transition. She is passionate about her work with students and believes transition-focused activities are vital to their success after high school.

Dawn serves the following school districts:  Fort Zumwalt (East, Hope, Mike Clemens Center, North, South, West); Francis Howell (Adult Life Prep, Central, North, Union, Westwood Trail Academy); Lutheran St. Charles; Northview; Orchard Farm; Orchard Farm Bridges; and The Lead School.