Director of Special Education Support Services

Job Title: Special Education Director — Autism Support Focus
Location: Small Private Catholic School in Hartford, CT
Reports To: Superintendent / Principal (depending on structure)

Position Summary:
A small private Catholic school in the greater Hartford, CT area is seeking a compassionate, knowledgeable, and mission-driven Special Education Director with a specialization in Autism Spectrum Disorders. This leadership role will guide and oversee the development and implementation of special education services, ensuring that students with autism and other learning differences receive high-quality, faith-affirming support in inclusive Catholic school environments. The director will work closely with school administrators, teachers, families, and outside agencies to cultivate best practices and equitable access for all learners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and execution of special education services across schools, with a primary focus on supporting students with autism.
• Serve as a resource and consultant for school leaders, teachers, and families on evidence-based strategies for supporting students with diverse learning needs.
• Coordinate the creation, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or equivalent support plans in compliance with legal and diocesan guidelines.
• Provide ongoing professional development, coaching, and training for educators on autism, inclusive practices, differentiation, and behavioral supports.
• Establish collaborative partnerships with external service providers, therapists, and community agencies to ensure comprehensive student support.
• Monitor program effectiveness through data analysis, site visits, and teacher feedback, making adjustments to meet the evolving needs of students and schools.
• Uphold the mission and values of Catholic education by fostering school cultures that affirm the dignity and unique potential of every child.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and diocesan special education regulations and ethical standards.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• State certification in Special Education (Director or Supervisor-level certification preferred).
• Extensive experience in special education, specifically supporting students on the autism spectrum.
• Proven leadership ability in guiding staff development, coaching teachers, and facilitating collaboration.
• Strong knowledge of special education law, IEP development, and autism-specific interventions.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education, with sensitivity to diverse learners' spiritual and academic needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in Catholic or faith-based educational settings is preferred, but not required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Hartford, CT 06180 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Hartford, CT 06180: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000