Director of Programming Principal

Boston Higashi School is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Programming and Administration to lead and integrate our educational and residential programs under the principles of Daily Life Therapy. This executive leadership role works closely with the Executive Director and leadership team to ensure programming supports student growth, safety, and long-term success. The Director provides strategic oversight of curriculum development, instructional practices, residential programming, and staff development.

This role supervises division directors, promotes collaboration across departments, and leads continuous program improvement using data-driven decision making. The Director also serves as a key liaison with families, community partners, and regulatory agencies while ensuring compliance with DESE, EEC, and IDEA regulations.

Qualified candidates will have a Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field, Massachusetts licensure in School Administration, and 7–10 years of progressive experience in special education, including leadership experience. Strong communication, program management, and team leadership skills are essential. This is a unique opportunity to shape programming at a mission-driven organization dedicated to supporting students with autism through an integrated educational and residential model.

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team on strategic initiatives, long‑term planning, and program evaluation.
• Provide overall direction and coordination for educational and residential programs to ensure consistency, quality, and alignment with student goals.
• Supervise and support division directors, offering guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Oversee curriculum development, instructional practices, and program design to meet the diverse learning and behavioral needs of students.
• Experience with all state and federal regulations, licensing standards, budget administration, and accreditation requirements.

• Oversight of staff training and professional development.
• Collaboration in curriculum planning to ensure consistency, quality, and growth across all areas of programming.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts across departments to enhance student outcomes and staff effectiveness.
• Analyze program data to inform decisions and allocate resources effectively.
• Identify and implement innovative practices that strengthen the integration of educational and residential programming.

• Serve as a key point of contact for complex parent and guardian concerns.
• Foster strong, collaborative relationships with families, community partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Communicate program goals, progress, and outcomes clearly and compassionately.
• Promote a culture of professional growth, teamwork, and open communication across departments.
• Ensure division directors and staff receive ongoing training and support in Daily Life Therapy practices.
• Model effective leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration.

• Participate in budget planning and resource allocation to support program priorities.
• Ensure policies and procedures reflect best practices and regulatory requirements, including those related to tuition rate setting.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and evaluation processes for program leadership roles.

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a field related to nonprofit and human services administration.
• Having experience and an understanding of the business side of operating a private special education school is desired.
• Prefer MA Licensed in School Administration.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in special education, with at least 3 years in a leadership or administrative role.
• Strong understanding of special education law (IDEA), DESE and EEC regulations, behavioral supports, and residential care models.
• Demonstrated success in staff supervision, program management, and strategic planning.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication, and conflict resolution skills.

• 6 weeks paid time off
• 2 weeks Sick/Personal Time
• Short Term Disability
• Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• PFML/FMLA
• Tuition Assistance
• 403b with company match
• Discretionary Fund

Compensation details will be discussed during the interview process.

Boston Higashi School is committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.