Director of Special Services - Begins

Director of Special Services - Begins July 1, 2026

The Westbrook School Department, a vibrant, student-centered community, is searching for a visionary Director of Special Services to champion exceptional educational experiences and foster a culture of inclusivity. The Special Service department is complex and offers programs in various settings including early childhood, resource, functional academics, functional life skills, intensive support, speech and language, occupational and physical therapy, social work, and community based placements.

The department provides case management for local group homes, facilitates cognitive and academic testing, and oversees Section 504. The successful candidate will be a highly organized leader capable of driving departmental efficiencies while ensuring the highest standard of support and services for every student.

• Lead and oversee all aspects of the Special Services programs, including in-district and out-of-district placements and Section 504, to ensure productive workflows and departmental efficiency.
• Collaborate with school and district administrators, teachers, and support staff to ensure the implementation of effective educational strategies for diverse student needs.
• Develop and manage the Special Education department budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with district priorities.
• Secure, manage, and oversee all aspects of federal grants related to Special Education, including development, compliance, and reporting.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and programs that adhere to state and federal regulations, and promote inclusive practices.
• Provide leadership in the creation and execution of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that meet the unique needs of each student.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth among Special Education staff through effective oversight and supervision.
• Be an active member of the Senior District Leadership team.

• Masters Degree or Higher in Educational Leadership, Special Education, or comparable field.
• Maine Department of Education certification in Special Education Administration or eligibility to obtain certification.
• At least 3 years of successful teaching experience in Special Education.
• Proven experience leading Special Education programs, preferably in a diverse and growing educational environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

The successful candidate will join an engaging professional team of educational leaders and work collaboratively to shape the future of special services in our district while contributing to the success of our diverse student population.

Proudly serving one of the most diverse communities in the state, the Westbrook School Department is committed to fostering a representative, inclusive workforce to grow into a culturally rich, equity-focused school district. Our students are offered various opportunities to thrive in our schools. Through our student-centered programs, we address all learners' academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs while embracing our identity as a whole child district.

Our schools serve learners from PK through high school, as well as in Career and Technical Education and Adult Education. We cultivate a collaborative working environment and a culture of continuous growth through supportive leadership, high expectations, and professional learning opportunities. We also provide competitive pay and generous benefits.

Together, we fulfill the promise: the best education for all, for life.

We invite you to join our team!

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The Westbrook School Department is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. We celebrate and encourage diversity among our staff.