Director of Special Education

DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

Common Core Competencies

Demonstrates the ability to:

* Lead a team of special education specialists in the implementation of the instructional programs for students with disabilities

* Strong communication, problem-solving, human relations and conflict resolution skills

* In-depth knowledge of state and federal special education laws

* Model best practices for teachers and students with disabilities

QUALIFICATIONS:

* SDL/SDA Certification

* Minimum five years teaching and/or administrative experience

* Demonstrated expertise in the area

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Works collaboratively with the Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel and the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instructional in coordinating the curriculum and instruction of special education programs with the total district's overall instructional effort.

* Works with the Director of Compliance to ensure adherence to all special education laws and guidance.

* Manage and monitors special education budgets, staffing and resources to support both short- and long-term district goals effectively

* Develop, implement and assess special education programs to ensure all students receive high- quality instruction in the least restrict environment.

* Utilize data analysis to assess program effectiveness, inform decision-making, and adjust special education services as needed.

* Oversee the referral process and the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring alignment with district policies and legal mandates.

* Provide leadership, direction and oversight for all district special education programs.

* Coordinate with district personnel in developing staff training programs for Special Education Personnel.

* Plans for, organizes, supervises and jointly evaluates district special education staff with the building principals.

* Collaborates with building administrators in the supervision and evaluation of Special Education Teachers. Assures compliance with federal and state regulations.

* Design special education programs that set rigorous, high expectations for teachers and all children including those with disabilities

* Selects, trains, and assigns compensatory instructional staff. Coordinates with building administrators and special education staff in the monitoring and delivery of compensatory services.

* Coordinates a physical education program for handicapped students in conjunction with the Athletic Director and appropriate district staff.

* Oversee State Education Department annual auditing processes

* Facilitate the special education impartial hearing process.

* Works collaboratively with the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction providing program evaluation on a regular basis and goal setting for all components of the student services program.

* Cooperates with building Principals in hiring, training and assigning student services staff.

* Coordinates with BOCES and other agencies in the special placement of special education students, and transfer of students between BOCES and district schools and/or other public, private, residential or day treatment centers.

* Oversees CSE/CPSE committees and the design and implementation of IEPs for in and out of district students

* Provides regular reports on private and BOCES student placement and coordinates with committees in each of the schools.

* Coordinates with building administrators and appropriate district staff the selection, ordering, purchasing and distribution of instructional materials for student services staff.

* Assists in interpreting the scope of student services provided to staff, school board and community.

* Works cooperatively with the Assistant Superintendent for Student Personnel Services and the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction to prepare local, state and federal reports relating to student services.

* Advises the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent for Student Personnel Services on the condition and appropriateness of facilities and equipment needed to provide student services.

* Reviews and recommends policy and procedural changes to the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent for Student Personnel Services and District Administration.

* Performs other duties as may be assigned by the Superintendent.

REPORTS TO:

Assistant Superintendent for Student Personnel Services