Director of Special Education

Position Overview

The Director of Special Education provides strategic leadership and oversight of all special education programs and services. This position ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, promotes inclusive practices, and drives high-quality instruction and support for students with disabilities. The Director works collaboratively with school leaders, teachers, families, and external partners to ensure every student receives a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Leadership and Compliance

• Develop, implement, and monitor all aspects of the special education program to ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and Pennsylvania Department of Education regulations.
• Lead annual program reviews, audits, and corrective action plans to maintain full regulatory compliance.
• Prepare and submit required state and federal reports, including Special Education Plans and Child Count data.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of policy changes and communicate implications to school administrators and staff.

Instructional Support and Student Achievement

• Oversee the design and delivery of instructional and behavioral support services to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
• Partner with school leaders to ensure IEP goals are aligned with academic standards and progress monitoring systems are in place.
• Support teachers in implementing evidence-based interventions, differentiation, and co-teaching models.
• Analyze student performance data to identify trends, allocate resources, and drive continuous improvement.

Leadership Development and Staff Supervision

• Recruit, train, and evaluate special education staff across the network, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Provide ongoing professional development in areas such as compliance, inclusion, IEP development, and behavioral supports.
• Serve as a mentor and resource for Special Education Teachers and related service personnel.

Family and Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison for parents and guardians regarding special education matters.
• Ensure families are informed and engaged partners in the IEP process.
• Coordinate with community agencies, mental health providers, and local education agencies to support student needs.

Operational and Fiscal Management.
• Oversee contracts with external service providers and ensure the quality and effectiveness of services delivered.
• Monitor staffing ratios and caseloads to ensure equitable and efficient service delivery.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
• Certification: Pennsylvania Certification in Special Education required.
• Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in special education, including at least three (3) years in a leadership or administrative capacity.
• Knowledge and Skills:
- In-depth understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and state compliance requirements.
- Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
- Proven ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and manage complex programs.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and student-centered practices.

Core Competencies

• Strategic and instructional leadership
• Compliance and accountability
• Data-driven decision making
• Cultural competence and inclusion
• Team development and capacity building
• Family and community engagement

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, school staff may be required to:

• Speak, stand, talk, walk, see, hear and, sometimes, to sit.
• Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to read small print.
• Frequently bend, reach above the head, as well as forward, and use fine motor skills.

Salary and Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and professional development opportunities.