Therapeutic School Operations Manager

The Therapeutic School Operations Manager is responsible for the daily operational oversight of a therapeutic school serving students with significant behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs. This role ensures the effective implementation of therapeutic, behavioral, and instructional programming by coordinating staff, services, schedules, and systems. The position does not serve as the building principal and does not conduct formal teacher evaluations, but works collaboratively with district administration, special education leadership, and clinical providers to ensure safe, compliant, and high-quality programming.

• Oversee daily school operations, including student programming, schedules, staffing coverage, and transitions.
• Ensure therapeutic, behavioral, and instructional services are delivered consistently and with fidelity.
• Monitor implementation of IEPs, behavior intervention plans (BIPs), safety plans, and therapeutic supports.
• Coordinate crisis response procedures and ensure staff follow approved de‑escalation and safety protocols.

• Supervise and support day-to-day work of teachers, paraprofessionals, behavior interventionists, and support staff.
• Coordinate staff schedules, assignments, and coverage in collaboration with administration.
• Facilitate daily check‑ins, problem‑solving meetings, and team communication.
• Provide coaching and feedback related to therapeutic practices, classroom structure, and behavior support (non‑evaluative).

• Monitor student progress related to behavioral regulation, social‑emotional development, and engagement.
• Collaborate with clinical staff (social workers, BCBAs, counselors, psychologists, OT) to ensure integrated services.
• Support staff in managing challenging behaviors while maintaining a safe, trauma‑informed environment.
• Participate in re‑entry, transition, and crisis planning for students.

• Ensure documentation related to behavior incidents, restraints (if applicable), therapeutic services, and safety plans is completed accurately and timely.
• Monitor compliance with IDEA, Section 504, state regulations, and district/cooperative policies.
• Support preparation for audits, monitoring visits, and program reviews.
• Serve as the primary on‑site operational contact for district administration and special education leadership.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding program operations and student supports (as appropriate).
• Coordinate with outside agencies, residential programs, and treatment providers when applicable.

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education, School Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Behavioral Science, or related field.
• Strong background in behavior management, trauma‑informed practices, and therapeutic school models.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise staff and manage complex day‑to‑day operations.

• Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience working with students with emotional disabilities, autism, and intellectual disabilities.
• Knowledge of PBIS, ABA principles, crisis prevention/de‑escalation, and therapeutic programming.
• Administrative, coordinator, or lead role experience in a school or treatment setting.

• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective during crises
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Strong understanding of special education law and compliance
• Ability to support staff while maintaining high expectations for safety and professionalism

• Reports to:
  
  Director of Special Education / Cooperative Administrator / District Designee
• Does not serve as building principal and does not complete formal teacher evaluations.

• Full‑time, school‑year or year‑round (as determined by program needs)

Matteson ESD 162 is an equal opportunity employer.

Postings current as of 2/19/2026 11:42:07 PM CST.