Special Education Attorney (SY24-25)

Reports to: Senior Legal Director

Overview:

Founded in 1647, Boston Public Schools (BPS) is the oldest public school district in the country. Boston Public Schools (BPS) serves over 48,000 children in 119 schools. BPS enrolls almost 11,000 students with disabilities, with 3,000 of the students identi?ed as English Learner students (ELs). We fundamentally believe that schools are the unit of change where our school leadership teams and educators create rigorous, supportive, and safe environments for every child to reach their full potential. Our work as a district is to ensure this is possible at every one of our schools.

Boston Public Schools (BPS) seeks to provide equitable opportunities for ALL students, fostering engagement in innovative, high-quality instruction within the least restrictive environment tailored to meet the student's individual needs. Boston Public Schools is seeking a dedicated and experienced Special Education Attorney to provide legal counsel and representation in special education law and compliance matters. The Special Education Attorney will provide expert legal counsel and representation to the Boston Public Schools (BPS) on all matters related to special education law and compliance. This role is a senior level attorney position who will advise the Office of Civil Rights to ensure that BPS adheres to federal and state laws (IDEA, ADA, etc.), regulations, and policies regarding the education of students with disabilities.

Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Senior Legal Director of the O?ce of Civil Rights, the attorney’s responsibilities will include:

• Provide senior level legal advice and guidance to BPS administrators, departments, educators, and sta? on special education issues, including student rights, eligibility, evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), disciplinary actions, and due process procedures.
• Support the District’s Problem Resolution System Team (PRS Team) in responding to PRS complaints filed with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
• Keep abreast of updates in Special Education Law, policies, and decisions and create legal updates to socialize to our internal stakeholders.
• Advise on District wide legal strategy with regard to the resolution of Special Education issues
• Work with outside counsel when appropriate to resolve Special Education matters that are in litigation
• Conduct legal research, analysis and render opinions and counsel on special education laws and regulations.
• Monitor BPS compliance with federal and state special education laws and regulations, ensuring adherence to procedural safeguards and best practices.
• Prepare the Office of Specialized Services (OSS) and the Office of the Legal Advisor (OLA) tin representing BPS in administrative hearings, mediations, and court proceedings related to special education disputes. This also includes providing direct representation when necessary.
• Draft legal documents, including settlement agreements, legal memoranda and hearing briefs. Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement district-wide policies and procedures that promote equitable access to special education services and support inclusive practices.
• Develop and Provide training and professional development to BPS sta? on special education law, compliance, and best practices.
• Assist OSS and OLA in the resolution of disputes and disagreements between Boston Public Schools and families of students with disabilities
• Work collaboratively with other attorneys, administrators, educators, families, and community partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality special education services to all students.

Quali?cations - Required:

• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school Licensed to practice law in Massachusetts
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience practicing special education law, preferably in a school district in Massachusetts or similar setting
• Strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws, regulations, and case law Excellent legal research, writing, and advocacy skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion in education

Quali?cations - Preferred:

• Experience working in or with educational institutions, school districts, or governmental agencies preferred
• Fluency in Spanish, or other languages;
• Pro?cient with Google Suite, Microsoft O?ce, Westlaw, and Social Law Library

Terms: Managerial, E81.

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.