Director of Special Education

Director of Special Education

Direct and manage the district's special education program. Ensure that services are provided for special needs students and individualized education plans are provided to meet the needs of all students. Warrant compliance with all state, federal, and local requirements.

Education/Certification:

Bachelor's degree and certification in Special Education required. Valid Texas Principal Certification

Special Knowledge/

Skills:

Knowledge of federal and state special education law Understanding of the individual needs of special needs students Ability to communicate with all levels of special needs students and their parents Ability to implement policy and procedures Ability to interpret data Ability to manage budget and personnel Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Demonstrate an advanced understanding of instructional strategies for students with autism, developmental delay, specific learning disabilities, and behavior disorders.

Have extensive background knowledge with district's electronic IEP system. Demonstrate strong skills in partnering with families. Demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of colleagues, parents, families, and community members. Be committed to meeting the needs of a diverse student population. Have a track record of being a team player and community minded.

Be committed to their own learning. Have excellent time-management skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently. Adhere to a high level of professional and ethical standards.

Experience:

Two (2) years of successful classroom teaching experience in an urban school setting as a special education teacher. Minimum 3 years Educational Diagnostician, Speech Pathologist, or LSSP experience. Administrative experience preferred.

Major

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Instructional and Program Management
• Oversee the development and delivery of special education curriculum and instructional programs that incorporate district goals and support student achievement.
• Ensure that curriculum renewal is continuous and responsive to student needs.
• Develop and implement an effective special education referral process and ensure that student assessments and recommendations regarding placement and program management for individual students are completed in a timely manner.
• Monitor the admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) process district wide.
• Participate in committee meetings as needed to ensure that students are placed appropriately and development of individual education plans for students are consistent with district procedures.
• Ensure that student progress is evaluated on a systematic basis.
• Obtain and use evaluative findings (including student achievement data) to gauge special education program effectiveness. Make changes when warranted.
• Ensure that the necessary time, resources, materials, and technology to support accomplish educational goals are available.
• Encourage and support the development of innovative instructional programs.
• Direct transition services for special education students entering and exiting public school programs.
• Take an active role in the formulating and implementing contracts for special education students receiving services outside of the district.
• Train and assist campus staff in developing campus schedules for inclusion that ensure all students minutes are being met as outlined in their IEP.
• Student Management
• Demonstrate support for the district's student management policies and expected student behavior related to special education program.
• Take an active role in training and implementation of district de-escalation and restraint procedures.
• Policy, Reports, and Law
• Implement the policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in area of special education. Recommend sound policies and procedures to improve program.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures. Train staff on and monitor PEIMS coding for all students receiving special…