As a generalization, I would agree on #2. One caveat is that her recent experience as a special ed director can be a double-edged sword, depending on her relationship with other special ed directors in the area. If she has a good reputation with them as knowledgeable and collaborative, then this should be a plus. If she didn't have a good rep as a director, this could be a minus. If she's not from the area, then it should be mostly upside (unless she's from another state, in which case her familiarity with special ed regs may be region-specific, and thus not always applicable to your district).
Keep in mind that the likelihood of any ed advocate having a thorough grasp of your DC's collection of 2e concerns is rather modest. If she is smart, understands the law, is a good negotiator, etc., then you can fill in some of the gaps on knowledge of 2e-ness.
