Special Education Director

CESA 11 is seeking a highly collaborative, student-centered educational leader to serve as a Director of Special Education and Pupil Services supporting two rural consortium school districts in the CESA 11 region (Northwest Wisconsin). This full-time position provides leadership, oversight, and support for special education programming, compliance, and pupil services while working closely with district superintendents, principals, teachers, families, and community partners.

The successful candidate will be committed to ensuring high-quality educational opportunities for students with disabilities, building strong relationships, supporting staff growth, and helping districts navigate the evolving landscape of special education.

Position Details

• Full-Time (1.0 FTE)
• 200-Day Contract
• Beginning July 1, 2026 (or as mutually agreed)
• Serving two consortium school districts within the CESA 11 region

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Administration

• Provide leadership and oversight for special education and pupil services programming within assigned districts.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state special education laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Support the development, implementation, and monitoring of student services and IEP processes.

Staff Support & Professional Learning

• Supervise designated special education personnel as assigned.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development to special education staff.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and retention efforts.

District Collaboration & Consultation

• Serve as a resource to district administrators, staff, and families regarding special education services and best practices.
• Collaborate with district leadership teams to support continuous improvement and student success.
• Serve as the primary liaison between assigned districts and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

Compliance, Budget & Reporting

• Support special education budgeting, grant management, and fiscal oversight.
• Ensure timely completion of required reports, documentation, and compliance activities.
• Utilize data to guide decision-making, improve programming, and support positive student outcomes.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Wisconsin Director of Special Education and Pupil Services License (DPI 80) or eligibility.
• Master''s Degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in special education leadership, administration, or program coordination.
• Thorough knowledge of special education law, compliance requirements, and current educational best practices.
• Strong communication, collaboration, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience serving in a school district leadership role.
• Experience supporting multiple schools or districts.
• Knowledge of special education finance, IDEA grant management, and Medicaid reimbursement.
• Experience with behavior systems, assistive technology, transition services, or specialized programming.

Desired Characteristics

The ideal candidate will:

• Be a relationship-builder who values collaboration and teamwork.
• Demonstrate a student-centered approach to decision-making.
• Possess strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Effectively balance compliance responsibilities with instructional leadership.
• Support staff growth through coaching, mentoring, and professional development.
• Exhibit integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Why Join CESA 11?

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact across multiple rural school districts while working alongside supportive district leaders and an experienced CESA 11 team. The role provides professional autonomy, regional leadership opportunities, and the chance to influence systems that improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

About CESA 11

CESA 11 serves 39 school districts throughout Northwest Wisconsin with a mission to Serve, Educate & Lead. Our team partners with districts to provide innovative, responsive, and customized services that strengthen educational opportunities for all students.

CESA 11 is an Equal Opportunity Employer.