Job Description
Director of Special Education and Student Support Services Job Brief:
Compliance and Administration Oversight
- Audit IEPs to ensure accuracy and best practices
- Act as LEA rep for IEP meetings
- Manage a caseload
- Act as the student transportation liaison
- Own and process student eligibilities
- Coordinate student evaluation testing
- Oversee all special programs activities (e.g. exit graduates, exit expulsions, assign caseloads)
- Guide the development and implementation of long-range and short-range plans for achieving special education goals and objectives in alignment with the school's strategic plan.
- Develop and manage the Extended School Year (ESY) program
- Manage mediation and due process procedures
Management and Training
- support discipline department and leadership with SPED students
- hire, train, and manage SPED teachers (monthly, as needed)
- hire/contract, manage, and support all related service providers (eg. psychologist)
- hire, train and manage dedicated aides
Reporting and Accountability
- report on all contractor costs (monthly)
- report on all deadlines
- IEPs, eligibilities and related services (weekly)
- report on patterns of issues (monthly)
- develop and maintain accountability systems for all SPED deadlines, including progress reports
- In addition to all duties as assigned, the DSESSS, will be responsible for all special education activities and general education student services supports
- build a rich culture in the SPED department and implement a SPED program that improves student outcomes
Requirements
- be skilled with creating, managing, and manipulating spreadsheets
- be familiar with special programs, including running reports
- have experience as a SPED teacher
- have case management experience
- have a bachelor's degree- ability to communicate effectively
- ability to build relationships with diverse individuals
- will be strongly urged to become OSSE certified in special education
- ability to conduct professional developments for SPED teachers (eg. IEP writing)
Required Social-Emotional Competencies:
Demonstrates self-awareness and the ability to recognize and manage one's emotions effectively.
Exhibits empathy and understanding towards others, fostering positive relationships and a supportive work environment.
Maintains composure under pressure and handles conflicts or challenging situations with tact and emotional maturity.
Works collaboratively with colleagues, staff, and stakeholders to achieve common goals and foster a sense of unity.
Actively listens to others, values diverse perspectives, and encourages open dialogue.
Builds effective teams, delegates tasks appropriately, and promotes a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.
Demonstrates openness and flexibility in embracing change (or different ideas) and adjusting to new circumstances or initiatives.
Adapts quickly to evolving situations and demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow from challenges.
Encourages innovation and supports creative problem-solving approaches.
Analyzes complex issues, identifies root causes, and generates creative solutions.
Applies critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions.
Seeks input from relevant stakeholders and considers multiple perspectives before arriving at conclusions.
Receives feedback with an open mind, demonstrating a growth mindset and a willingness to improve.
Provides constructive feedback to others in a respectful and supportive manner, focusing on professional growth and development.
Actively seeks feedback from colleagues and stakeholders to enhance performance and effectiveness.
Communicates clearly, confidently, and respectfully with diverse audiences, including staff, parents, students, and community members.
Listens attentively, asks thoughtful questions, and seeks to understand others' viewpoints.
Uses appropriate verbal and written communication skills to convey complex ideas and information effectively.
Engages in constructive dialogue and debates while maintaining respect and professionalism.
Expresses dissenting opinions or disagreements tactfully, considering the impact on relationships and the broader goals.
Demonstrates the ability to find common ground and work towards consensus when faced with differing perspectives.
Builds and maintains positive and trusting relationships with staff, parents, students, and community members.
Demonstrates approachability, active listening, and the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Cultivates a sense of community, fosters collaboration, and promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Exhibits determination and resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks.
Maintains a positive attitude, motivates others, and leads by example during difficult times.
Demonstrates perseverance in pursuing long-term goals and continuous improvement.
Demonstrates high ethical standards and acts with integrity in all professional interactions.
Maintains confidentiality and handles sensitive information with discretion.
Upholds professional boundaries and adheres to relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines.
Qualifications: Bachelor's degree required
Two years of teaching experience in a high school setting
Experience working in an urban, high-need school environment
Experience working with Special Programs in Washington, DC (preferred) Focused Staffing
Job Tags
Contract work, For contractors,