Director of Special Education and Student Support Services

Job Description

Job DescriptionDirector 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)