Special Education and Student Services Administrator

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Openings as of 7/5/2026

Special Education and Student Services Administrator

• Position Type:
  Administration
• Date Posted: 6/11/2026
• Location:
  
  Lincoln Center (Administration Offices)

Helena Public Schools is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as the Director of Special Education and Student Services. This critical district-level role provides strategic leadership to ensure equitable access, inclusion, and excellence for all students seeking support services. This position champions inclusive practices, high-quality instruction, and least restrictive environment placements while overseeing staff, managing resources, and ensuring effective service delivery across the District.

This is a unique opportunity to lead meaningful, system-wide work that directly impacts students, families, and staff, while fostering a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement across Helena Public Schools. The successful candidate will bring a deep understanding of student services, a commitment to equity and belonging, and the ability to translate vision into effective, sustainable practices that align with the District's mission and goals.

• Provide District-wide leadership for the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of special education and student services programs that promote equitable access, inclusive practices, and positive student outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations (including IDEA, ADA, and Section 504), while upholding student rights and fostering meaningful family engagement.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring high-quality instruction, measurable progress, and access to the least restrictive environment.
• Lead data-informed decision-making to evaluate program effectiveness, improve service delivery models, and address disparities in student outcomes.
• Develop and manage the special education budget, including staffing, resource allocation, and contracted services.
• Supervise, evaluate, and support special education staff, nurses, and program leaders, while fostering a collaborative, professional culture focused on continuous improvement.
• Design and support professional learning focused on special education compliance, inclusive practices, and instructional effectiveness.
• Collaborate with school leaders, District departments, families, and community partners to ensure cohesive, responsive, and student-centered services.
• Serve as a District representative in complex student service matters, including eligibility, placement decisions, due process, and out-of-district placements.
• Build strong partnerships with families and community agencies to support the academic, social, and emotional success of all students.

• Master's degree from an accredited institution with an emphasis in special education, educational leadership, or a related field; and
• A minimum of five years teaching experience that includes special education programs and student support services; supervisory experience preferred; and
• A valid teaching certificate in conjunction with a valid administrative endorsement and coursework related to special education; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by the District.
• Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and related regulations.
• Experience managing budgets and staffing.
• Experience with MTSS, transitioning programming, and out-of-district placements.
• Initiative and adaptability to independently prioritize action to best address the needs of the District with professionalism and mindfulness.
• Communication and integrity to work effectively under pressure with diverse audiences, promoting consensus, while being respectful of other's interests and District's interests.
• Influence and personal effectiveness to instill trust and demonstrate integrity through daily interactions and act responsibly in difficult situations.
• Service and organizational commitment to provide prompt, efficient service that meets expectations of the clients and holds to the highest value the District's approach and service.
• Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and productively with colleagues to support student success and achieve school and District goals.
• Mathematical skills and reasoning ability to calculate figures, analyze data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Work effectively with computer and software programs to perform the duties of the position; learn and utilize District applications.
• Remain current and knowledgeable of legal requirements governing special education, including 504…