After sorting through 22 candidates, the 11-person search committee found a new director of student services to direct special education in the Wareham Public Schools.

On Wednesday, Melissa Fay was appointed director of student services. Fay has extensive experience with special education, including holding a Massachusetts license as a special education administrator, spending many years working with special education classes and being a doctoral candidate at Johnson & Wales University.

Fay also has a son with special needs, who she said is her "passion that drives me forward in life."

At the School Committee meeting where she was appointed, Fay explained part of her special education philosophy. She said she believes early intervention is key.

"Our job is to make sure we provide skills for our students that allow them to be successful," Fay said.

The committee voted unanimously to appoint Fay to the position, which will take effect Aug. 1.