Special Edcuation Department Co-Chair

PURPOSE

The Special Education Department Chairperson provides leadership in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of special education programs and services. This role supports staff, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, facilitates professional learning, and serves as a liaison among special education staff, related service providers, administration, and external stakeholders to promote student success.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• Valid Pennsylvania Special Education Certification required
• Evidence of successful experience in special education instruction and/or leadership
• Master's Degree required (Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field preferred)
• Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, Chapter 14, and other applicable state and federal regulations

• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, administration, families, and outside agencies
• Strong organizational, facilitation, and leadership skills
• Ability to plan and lead meetings and professional development
• Commitment to inclusive practices and student-centered decision-making
• Receipt of current, favorable clearances including:
• Pennsylvania State Criminal History (Act 34)
• Federal Criminal History (FBI Fingerprinting - Act 114)
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse (Act 151)
• Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosures (Act 168)

Reportable to the Director of Pupil Services and Assistant Superintendent

Completed by the Director of Pupil Services and Assistant Superintendent

• Ensure implementation of special education programs aligned with IDEA, Chapter 14, and district policies
• Support inclusive practices within the district
• Work with other staff to write planned courses.
• Support staff in analyzing student data, progress monitoring, and goal development
• Assist in aligning curriculum, assessments, and specially designed instruction with student needs
• Serve as a resource and mentor to special education teachers and paraprofessionals
• Meet regularly with department staff to address concerns, share updates, and provide guidance
• Support onboarding and induction of new special education staff
• Collaborate with school psychologists, related service providers, and administrators
• Serve as liaison between special education staff and district administration
• Facilitate collaboration between general and special education staff to support inclusive programming
• Communicate departmental needs, concerns, and successes to administration
• Plan, facilitate, and coordinate job-embedded professional development for special education staff
• Support district-wide initiatives related to differentiation, inclusion, and behavior supports
• Assist in budget planning and monitoring for the special education department
• Participate in staffing decisions, including interviews
• Analyze program effectiveness and recommend improvements
• Stay current on best practices and innovations in special education
• Build networks with other districts and professional organizations to share resources and strategies

• Often sitting at desk for extended periods
• Standing for limited periods of time
• Moderate lifting from 15 to 30 pounds
• Some carrying up to 30 pounds

• Visual acuity to read correspondences, computer screen
• Auditory acuity to be able to use telephones, conduct staff meetings
• Ability to speak clearly and distinctly

Generally, classroom, office, or conference room setting

• Ability to work as a leader and member of a team
• Must be courteous and able to effectively communicate with staff and students
• Must be cooperative, congenial and service-oriented, and promote these qualities in the department
• Ability to work in an environment with frequent interruptions

• Ability to follow written and verbal directions
• Ability to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision
• Ability to read, write and do complex computations
• Ability to use correct grammar, sentence structure and spelling
• Ability to compose clear, concise sentences and paragraphs
• Ability to organize work setting to efficiently accomplish tasks
• Ability to work independently, exercise appropriate initiative, and make work-related decisions
• Ability to exercise good judgment in prioritizing tasks and work efficiently on those tasks
• Ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels

Note:

All abilities above must be at a professional level, as expected from the required educational level of the job and the previous experience required.

• Proficiency in special education data systems and compliance platforms (e.g., IEP software)
• Ability to use and support instructional and assistive technology
• Strong knowledge of differentiated instruction and behavior supports
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines

Valid Driver's License

• Position holder must have a friendly, helpful, caring personality
• Position holder has access to information for the Spring Grove…