Assistant Director of Special Programs

Assistant Director of Special Programs

In collaboration with the Director of Special Programs, the Assistant Director of Special Programs provides leadership and guidance for the effective and compliant implementation of special education programs and services. The Assistant Director of Special Programs provides coaching, training, consultation, and technical support to improve outcomes for all students who receive special education programs and services in the district.

• Develop and administer special services programs consistent with school district goals and objectives, as well as applicable law in collaboration with the Director of Special Programs
• Provide leadership for the ongoing evaluation and improvement of special education programs and services to increase student academic and functional performance
• Ensure the use of data-based decision-making for effective implementation of evidence-based practices to support academic and behavioral specially designed instruction to meet the needs of students with disabilities
• Review student progress data with staff to ensure optimal student growth for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment
• Collaborate with related service staff, special education teachers, general education teachers, administrators, and parents regarding individual student needs
• Work closely with MTSS Coordinator and building administrators to ensure effective Student Assistance Team and compliant Child Find procedures
• Support implementation of district initiatives through training, coaching, consultation, data review and feedback
• Provide training and support to enhance Peer to-Peer/LINK programs across the district
• Partner with the Director of Special Programs to support compliance with state and federal requirements
• Consult with teams and/or participate in Manifestation Determination Review meetings.
• Coordinate with the Teaching & Learning Department and building principals to ensure equitable and compliant administration of the Michigan assessment system for students with disabilities.
• Supervise and evaluate department staff in accordance with the school district's evaluation plan, and make recommendations regarding goals, areas needing improvement, and continued employment
• Assist with determining areas of need and providing professional development related to special education.
• Communicate regularly with the Director of Special programs regarding issues, concerns, and needs related to special education
• Develop positive working relationships with building administrators and staff, members of the special education department, students, and parents
• Maintain and protect students' rights to confidentiality
• Demonstrate ability to work effectively and equitably with individuals of diverse cultural and economic backgrounds
• Encourage parent and community involvement; support informed engagement of parents/guardians in the special education process
• Know and be able to educate others about federal and state rules and regulations pertaining to special education
• Promote a school environment conducive to individualized instruction, cooperative curriculum development, and student learning.
• Assist in supporting collaboration between building staff, Transportation Department, KISD Programs, and families to ensure high-quality special transportation for eligible students
• Budget related to special programs, including review and approval of requisitions
• Remain current and keep other school district staff informed of developments in the laws, regulations, and/or fields of special education, disabilities, and school health programs.
• Coordinate and attend meetings with district staff and parents, serve on committees, and conduct professional development as needed to fulfill responsibilities
• Other duties as assigned

Employment Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in special education, educational leadership, early childhood, or a related field, required.
• Valid Michigan teaching certificate with an endorsement in at least one area of special education or a valid special education licensure or certification (i.e. School Social Work, Speech and Language Pathologist, School Psychologist, etc.)
• At least five years of experience in special education programs/services.
• Michigan approval as a Director of Special Education, or eligible for the State of Michigan approval or temporary approval as Director of Special Education pursuant to MARSE Rule 340.1771.
• Knowledge of State of Michigan special education rules and regulations, staff management, corrective discipline, knowledge of state and federal special education law, and knowledge of or direct work experience with special education programs and services.
• Exceptional leadership skills.
• Knowledge and experience in High Leverage Practices, School Improvement,
• Extensive knowledge of MTSS.
• Knowledge and experience in the use of technology to support instruction and data collection.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to…