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 Student Personnel Services and the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction.
• Works with the Director of Student Services and Data Quality Compliance to ensure adherence to all special education law and guidance.
• Works with the Executive Director for Special Education in coordinating curriculum and instruction support of Special Education programs with the district's instructional effort.
• Manage and monitor special education budgets, staffing and resources to support both short- and long-term district goals effectively
• Implement and assess special education programs to ensure all students receive high quality instruction in the least restrictive environment.
• Utilize data analysis 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.
• Oversees State Education Department annual auditing processes
• Facilitate the special education impartial hearing process.
• 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.
• Advises the Executive Director for Special Education 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 and the Executive Director for Special Education.

(Rev. 10/28/26)